Launch fares to remain unchanged during Eid: Shipping Minister

The government of Bangladesh has announced that launch fares will remain unchanged during the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr, with authorities warning of strict action against operators found carrying excess passengers.

Shipping, Road Transport and Bridges, and Railways Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam made the announcement on Thursday while speaking to reporters after a preparatory meeting at the Secretariat aimed at ensuring safe and smooth travel by waterways during the Eid holiday.

The meeting was held at the Ministry of Shipping conference room and was attended by State Minister for Road Transport, Railways and Shipping Habibur Rashid and State Minister for Road Transport Md Rajib Ahsan.

The minister said fares will not be allowed to increase under any circumstances and that operators will not be permitted to transport passengers beyond vessel capacity.

“We have discussed the matter with launch owners, and they have assured us that fares will not be raised,” he said, adding that mobile courts will remain active around the clock to monitor compliance and take immediate action against violations.

Officials said 26 decisions were adopted at the meeting to ensure a smooth and well-coordinated Eid travel experience.

The minister noted that last year’s Eid travel arrangements were relatively smooth and expressed hope that management would improve further this year.

To reduce congestion, authorities will coordinate with the city corporation and traffic police to prevent traffic jams from Gulistan to Sadarghat. Illegal parking and makeshift shops on footpaths will be removed.

The minister warned that harassment of passengers, extortion at Sadarghat terminal, unauthorised gatherings, and illegal hawking would not be tolerated.

He further said launch services will operate according to schedule.

The Coast Guard and River Police will remain on alert to ensure safety on waterways. In addition, bulkhead vessel movement will be suspended for five days before and after Eid to prevent disruption to passenger services.

Expressing confidence, the minister said this year’s Eid travel experience is expected to be more orderly and comfortable for passengers returning home.