Dhaka May 21 (V7N) - State Minister for Shipping Md. Razib Ahsan conducted a surprise inspection at Dhaka's Sadarghat Launch Terminal to review safety and operational preparations ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha holiday rush. During his visit, the minister held discussions with launch owners, labor representatives, and terminal officials, outlining a zero-tolerance policy for any operational negligence, safety violations, or customer harassment during the peak travel season.
To ensure passenger safety and prevent accidents on the waterways, the minister issued several strict directives for the holiday period:
Passengers were strongly urged never to use small boats or trawlers to board or disembark from larger launches, a high-risk practice that frequently leads to accidents.
Launch operators received direct orders prohibiting them from carrying any passengers beyond their certified capacity.
All vessels must prominently display digital fare charts showing government-approved rates to protect commuters from exploitation.
The minister warned that law enforcement and monitoring teams will take immediate, severe action against any operator found overcharging passengers or displaying irregularities in service.
High-ranking officials from the Ministry of Shipping, BIWTA, BIWTC, and the Department of Shipping accompanied the minister during the inspection, confirming that law enforcement agencies will maintain a heightened presence at the terminal to guarantee a secure commute for holiday travelers.
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