Launch operators will not be allowed to carry passengers beyond capacities and there will be double trip (by each launch) to facilitate hassle-free journey for Eid holidaymakers, said State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury on Sunday.
"The launch could take passengers beyond capacity. To accommodate the increased number of passengers, there will be double trip (launch) to ensure smooth journey for the passengers," he told the media after visiting Dhaka River Port Terminal at the city's Sadarghat to see for himself the overall launch-journey management during Eid-ul-Fitr.
He said that members of Coast Guard, river police and other law-enforcing agencies will work to ensure safe journey for the homebound Eid passengers.
He urged launch passengers not take risks of their lives while travelling.
Mr Chowdhury also called upon launch operators to refrain from overloading and not overcharge or take any extra money from the passengers.
Asking them to take precautionary measures against storms he said that launch operators must be prepared to take berth at any place instantly in case of outbreak of a Kalbaishaki (storm) during the voyage.
He talked to the launch operators as well as the passengers and expressed satisfaction over preparations taken for the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitre.
Chairman of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) Commodore Golam Sadeq was also present, among others.
talhabinhabib@yahoo.com