Narayanganj-Bhola ferry service inaugurated
The Shipping Minister talks to reporters on Tuesday after inaugurating Dhaka-Ilisha ferry service at Kanchpur in Siddhirganj. Collected photo.
Minister for Shipping Sheikh Rabiul Alam has said that the government aims to connect Bhola with the mainland via road by constructing roads and bridges within the next four to five years.
He talked about this plan while speaking to journalists after the formal inauguration of the Dhaka–Ilisha ferry service on Tuesday (8 September) afternoon at Kanchpur in Siddhirganj of Narayanganj.
At the event, the minister said that due to the lack of direct road connectivity between Bhola and other parts of the country, local people have long had to rely on waterway transports. As part of a permanent solution, plans have been taken to connect Bhola with the mainland by constructing roads and bridges. However, until that initiative is implemented, the ferry service will continue to enhance people's travel convenience.
The Shipping Minister said that trial runs of ferries on the Kanchpur–Ilisha route began on 27 August. Over the past few days, it has been observed that there is significant demand and interest not only from passengers but also from private cars, pickups, and cargo trucks on this route. Currently, two ferries—named 'Begum Sufia Kamal' and 'Begum Rokeya'—are operating daily. The crossing from one end to the other takes about eight hours.
He further said that considering the public response, the government is thinking about increasing the number of ferries on this route. At the same time, instructions have been given to rationalise fares, improve passenger services, and ensure discipline at the ferry terminals.
The minister said that initiatives have also been taken to make Dhaka's circular waterway and water bus services more effective. If fixed schedules, comfortable environments for passengers, and better coordination between waterways and road connections can be ensured, these services will become even more popular. This will not only reduce public suffering but also help cut losses in the water transport sector.
Regarding roads damaged by monsoon rains and floods, the minister said that necessary steps have been taken to repair the affected roads. Additionally, attention will be given to the unplanned and illegal extraction of sand around various bridges. If evidence of unauthorised sand extraction is found, strict action will be taken against those involved.
Also present at the event were Shipping Secretary Zakaria, and BIWTC Chairman ATM Abdul Bari Danny, among others.
