Dhaka, May 10 (V7N)- The government has announced an ambitious plan to modernize Bangladesh’s inland water transport system, aiming to ensure 100% safety and transform the sector within the next two to three years through better use of the country’s extensive river network.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of “Naval Safety Week 2026” organized by the Department of Shipping Bangladesh on Sunday, Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam said the country’s 16,000 kilometers of waterways remain underutilized despite their vast economic potential.

He stated that Bangladesh has a natural advantage in inland waterways, but poor management and lack of modernization have prevented full use of this resource. The government, he added, is committed to turning the sector into a safe, efficient, and “state-friendly” transport system.

The minister acknowledged that the sector is currently in a weakened condition, but emphasized that planned investments and coordinated efforts could significantly improve its performance.

He also highlighted that while water transport management showed improvement during the last Eid travel period, further reforms are necessary to achieve long-term safety and efficiency.

Special guest and State Minister for Shipping Rajib Ahsan urged ship owners and authorities to remain vigilant to prevent accidents. He noted that incidents have decreased compared to previous years but stressed that stronger awareness and enforcement could potentially reduce accidents to zero.

He also warned that without modern vessels and improved management, navigational routes could become increasingly unsafe and congested.

During the event, senior official Shafiul Bari said that around 223,000 vessels are currently operating across the country, of which 108,000 have already been registered.

He added that a nationwide registration drive for unregistered vessels began on May 1, with plans to bring all remaining vessels under registration within six months.

The ministry also announced special measures to ensure safe river travel for passengers during the upcoming Eid holiday season, when river transport demand is expected to rise significantly.

Officials say the overall initiative is aimed at reducing accidents, improving discipline in waterways, and unlocking the economic potential of Bangladesh’s vast river network.

END/SMA/AJ