Govt to expand water transport services, register all vessels: Rajib

State Minister for Shipping Rajib Ahsan has said the government is taking steps to improve water transport services across Bangladesh, including deploying additional vessels on routes experiencing high passenger demand and bringing all boats under a formal registration system.

Speaking during a visit to the Ilisha Ghat in Bhola on Monday, the state minister said uninterrupted and efficient waterway services remain a key priority for the government, particularly during periods of heavy travel such as Eid-ul-Azha.

He noted that authorities are currently conducting a nationwide census of boats and water vessels to create a comprehensive database of all craft operating on the country’s rivers and waterways.

According to him, the survey will help determine the capacity and operational status of vessels and ensure that they are registered under the appropriate regulatory framework.

Rajib Ahsan said that once the census and registration process is completed, authorities will take action against illegal and unregistered vessels.

He added that the initiative is aimed at improving safety standards and strengthening oversight in the water transport sector.

The state minister also highlighted the government's preparations for the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha holidays, when millions of people travel between cities and their hometowns. Ensuring safe, comfortable and uninterrupted journeys for passengers remains a major objective, he said.

To reduce congestion and inconvenience, the government plans to introduce additional vessels on busy routes where passenger demand is expected to increase significantly during the holiday season.

Officials from the Shipping Ministry, district administration and local representatives accompanied the state minister during the inspection visit.