Desk Report:
State Minister for Shipping and Bridges Md. Rajib Ahsan visited Paturia-Daulatdia ferry on Thursday (May 21, 2026) to check preparations for Eid pilgrimage by water. During the visit, the State Minister observed the overall management of the ferry, passenger services, security arrangements and vehicle crossing activities. During this time, he provided necessary directions to the concerned officials and employees.
Briefing reporters, the State Minister said that the safety fence of the pontoon of the ferry has been raised and strengthened to prevent unwanted accidents. A stop gate has been constructed at the ferry. A separate connecting road has been constructed for passengers to get on and off. He requested the passengers to get off the bus and board the ferry for the safety of the passengers. At the same time, he urged passengers traveling by waterways not to board or disembark from boats or trawlers under any circumstances. He said that strict measures will be taken against excess passenger transportation and excess fare collection and digital fare list should be displayed in a visible place on every launch.
The State Minister said that sand-carrying bulkhead movement will be completely stopped day and night for 5 days before Eid-ul-Azhar and the next 5 days, i.e. from May 23 to June 02. In addition, speedboat movement will also be stopped at night. For 3 days before Eid-ul-Azhar and the next 3 days, i.e. from May 25 to May 31, general trucks and covered vans will be closed on ferries, except trucks carrying daily necessities and perishable goods. However, trucks carrying sacrificial animals will get the ferry crossing facility on priority basis.
The State Minister said that to reduce the passenger pressure at Sadarghat, launch services will be operated from Basila Ghat in Mohammadpur, Dhaka and Shimulia Ghat adjacent to Purbachal Kanchan Bridge. In addition, BRTC shuttle bus service will be launched from Kuril Bishwa Road to Shimulia Ghat.
It is to be noted that the Ministry of Shipping has requested passengers travelling by waterways to contact BIWTA hotline 16113, National Emergency Service 999, Government Information and Services 333, Fire Service 102, Coast Guard 16111, Naval Police 01769-702215 and Operation Zero Missing 0132000217 for any emergency needs.
