BHOLA, June 1: State Minister for Shipping Md Rajib Ahsan on Sunday said the government's primary objective is to ensure that passengers travelling by waterways return safely to their workplaces after the Eid holidays.
"We have visited all major points where large numbers of people travel by water, as it is our responsibility. We ensured that people reached their homes safely, and now we are working so they can return to their respective workplaces safely as well," he said.
The state minister made the remarks while visiting Ilisha Launch Terminal in Bhola on Sunday afternoon.
He said visits to ferry and launch terminals help authorities identify minor operational shortcomings that can be addressed promptly.
"When we visit the terminals, we notice small lapses and try to rectify them ourselves. We promised people they would be able to travel safely to their loved ones and return safely afterwards. We are successfully fulfilling that commitment, which is what we aim for," he said.
Addressing the issue of unauthorised vessels operating on waterways, state minister said many such vessels exist because of public demand, though some lack official registration.
"Through an ongoing water transport census, we are bringing all vessels under registration based on their engine capacity. Once the process is completed, there will be no scope for illegal vessel operations," he said.
"Wherever there is a shortage of water transport, we will try to provide vessels within our capacity, either through government-owned ships or privately operated ones. This is our commitment. We will not allow passengers in any region to suffer due to inadequate waterway transport services," he added.
Among others present during the visit were Bhola Deputy Commissioner Dr Shamim Rahman and Superintendent of Police Md Shahidullah Kawser, along with other senior administrative officials.
