State Minister for Shipping and Bridges Rajib Ahsan on Sunday said country's rich river transport heritage could be restored through modernisation of launch terminal pontoons and regular dredging to maintain navigability of waterways.
He made these remarks while speaking to journalists after inspecting the Chandpur Launch Terminal.
“If we can modernise the pontoons at launch terminals and keep river routes navigable through regular dredging, waterways will once again become a trusted mode of transportation for people,” the state minister said.
“We want river transport to regain its lost heritage,” he added.
Referring to the century-old paddle steamers, Rajib said the vessels had undergone repeated repairs over the years and only one remained operational at present.
“The remaining steamers are no longer suitable for carrying passengers. Passenger safety must always be our top priority,” he said.
However, he noted that the government was considering alternative ways to utilise the historic steamers to preserve their heritage value while ensuring public service.
The state minister said the Ministry of Shipping would continue efforts to ensure safe and reliable transportation for passengers and re-establish waterways as a dependable means of travel.
Regarding post-Eid travel, he said the government was working to ensure that passengers could return safely to their workplaces through river routes.
“All major terminals are being monitored to ensure passengers do not face difficulties. Work is underway to address existing problems at the terminals,” he said.
Speaking about the Chandpur Modern River Terminal project, Rajib said part of the construction work had been completed, but the contractor halted operations after the events of August 5.
“A new contractor will be appointed and the remaining work will be completed as quickly as possible. Once completed, Chandpur river port will regain its traditional importance,” he said.
He also said the government was working to introduce high-speed water transport in line with modern transportation demands.
Among others, BIWTA Chairman Arif Ahmed Mostafa, Member (Engineering) Rakibul Islam Talukder, Chandpur Zila Parishad Administrator and District BNP General Secretary Advocate Salim Ullah Selim, BIWTA Chandpur Deputy Director Md Kamruzzaman and local BNP and associate body leaders were present during the visit.
