BAGERHAT, Jan 4, 2026 (BSS) - Bangladesh Coast Guard, in coordination with the Navy, Naval Police, Department of Shipping and Bagerhat District Administration, conducted a joint operation today to ensure the safety of tourist vessels in Mongla.

Coast Guard Media Officer Lieutenant Commander Siam-ul-Haq said the operation, held at 11 am near the ferry pier under Mongla police station, aimed to verify the registration, fitness certificate, route permit, fire-fighting system, first aid equipment, and crew proficiency of launches, tourist boats, and other vessels operating on Sundarbans tourist routes.

Passengers were also briefed on safety measures, while authorities checked whether passenger lists were maintained and vessel capacities adhered to. 

Vessel captains, masters, and crew were instructed to exercise greater caution and awareness during operations.

Illegal structures built to carry additional passengers were removed, and warnings were issued that no vessel would be allowed to operate without proper fitness and a valid license. Owners of unfit boats were fined by the Executive Magistrate of Bagerhat.

Lieutenant Commander Siam-ul-Haq added that the Coast Guard would continue such operations to ensure risk-free travel and the safety of tourists in the region.