Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam visited the Dhaleshwari River area of ​​Munshiganj district on Saturday morning. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Feb 28, 2026 (BSS) - Shipping, Road Transport and Bridges, and Railways Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam has directed authorities to take strict legal action against those responsible for keeping imported wheat- and maize-laden lighter vessels anchored in rivers without unloading cargo within the stipulated time.

The directive came during a surprise inspection conducted by the minister in the Dhaleshwari River area of Munshiganj this morning, according to a press release of the Shipping Ministry.

Speaking at the site, the minister said that any attempt to create an artificial crisis in the market or gain excessive profit by deliberately keeping food grains on vessels would not be tolerated.

He warned that such practices could disrupt market management and harm consumer interests. 

Following the inspection, the minister urged all importers, transport operators, and traders to strictly follow regulations, promptly unload food grains, and ensure proper storage to maintain market stability and protect consumers' interests.

During the visit, the minister observed that several lighter vessels had remained idle in the river for 6 to 18 days while carrying food grains. 

According to regulations, such goods must be unloaded promptly at designated warehouses. However, the concerned companies failed to comply with the rules.

The government, he added, has adopted a strict stance against irregularities and will not spare dishonest traders under any circumstances.

According to the press release, the taskforce formed under the Department of Shipping has been conducting regular monitoring and drives along river routes.

Over the past one and a half months, a total of 838 vessels have been inspected in the Dhaka, Narayanganj, and Jashore regions. 

If investigations confirm irregularities, punitive measures will be taken against those involved under existing laws, the release added.