Launch fares rise on Barishal routes, BIWTA ‘unaware’

BARISHAL, Sept 24: Launch fares on several inland routes here increased by Tk 10 to Tk 30 on Tuesday, less than five months after a previous hike, despite the regulatory authority denying any approval.

The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Passengers’ Transport Association’s Barishal zone announced the unapproved increase in a letter on Monday signed by its zonal secretary.

Affected routes include Barishal-Mehendiganj, Barishal-Bheduria and Laharhat-Bheduria. On the Barishal-Mehendiganj route, deck fare rose from Tk 120 to Tk 140, upper-class fare from Tk 150 to Tk 190, and student fare from Tk 80 to Tk 100. Barishal-Bheduria deck fares increased to Tk 140 from Tk 120, while upper-class tickets rose to Tk 180. Laharhat-Bheduria fares increased by Tk 10 per passenger.

Mohammad Soleman Hossain, Assistant Director of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) Barishal River Port Office, said he was unaware of the hike and would investigate.

Amir Hossain, Secretary of the Launch Owners’ Association in Barishal, defended the move, citing rising fuel prices and operating costs. Asked about lacking BIWTA approval, he said official procedures take too long.

The previous hike occurred on May 6. Passengers and students expressed frustration over the latest unauthorised increase, noting it strains daily travel budgets on vital links to the Mehendiganj Upazila.

“The owners’ association raised fares without an official directive,” said regular passenger Shamsul Karim. “Fares should be revised through government authorities.”