DHAKA, BANGLADESH, March 19  — State Minister for Shipping Md. Rajib Ahsan on Thursday conducted an on-site inspection of the Sadarghat Launch Terminal to review preparations for ensuring safe and smooth travel of homebound passengers during the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr.

During the morning visit, the minister closely monitored launch operations and passenger management, inspecting multiple pontoons and boarding several vessels to assess crowd conditions. He took immediate action in cases of overcrowding and directed authorities to enforce strict compliance with safety regulations.

“No launch should operate with excess passengers under any circumstance,” the minister instructed, emphasizing that passenger safety must remain the top priority.

He also ordered launch operators to remove additional passengers before departure and maintain discipline in boarding procedures. The minister stressed the importance of preventing disorderly competition among operators and ensuring systematic embarkation and disembarkation of passengers.

Officials said enhanced vigilance measures have been put in place, with the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority intensifying monitoring of river traffic. Speedboats have been deployed to oversee vessel movement and ensure compliance with safety directives.

The Ministry of Shipping said comprehensive preparations have been undertaken to facilitate safe, smooth, and well-organized river transport during the Eid travel rush, with monitoring efforts to continue throughout the holiday period.

Senior officials from the ministry and relevant agencies were present during the inspection.

END//RH