State Minister for Shipping and Bridges Md. Razib Ahsan presided over a meeting held at the headquarters of the Department of Shipping in Agargaon, Dhaka. Photo: PID

DHAKA, Apr 5, 2026 (BSS)- State Minister for Shipping and Bridges Md. Razib Ahsan has announced that all inland vessels in the country will be brought under a digital registration system in the shortest possible time to ensure safe, disciplined, and modern waterway transport.

He made the remarks while presiding over a meeting held at the headquarters of the Department of Shipping in Agargaon, Dhaka, focusing on resolving fuel shortages for lighter vessels engaged in cargo transportation.

The State Minister said that a comprehensive policy will also be formulated to ensure proper registration, operation, and discipline in inland water transport. 

He emphasized that these steps are part of the government’s broader efforts to modernize the country’s waterways.

Speaking about fuel supply, he stated that there is currently no shortage of fuel affecting passenger or cargo vessels, and operations are continuing normally. 

However, in anticipation of potential global fuel challenges, the ministry is taking proactive measures. 

A coordination cell will be established to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply for vessels, along with regular coordination meetings with fuel-supplying organizations.

He further reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining safe and smooth navigation across the country. 

Urging vessel operators to comply with existing laws, he warned that illegal stockpiling or wastage of fuel would not be tolerated, especially in the backdrop of global energy situation.

Among others present at the meeting were Shipping Ministry Secretary Dr. Nurun Nahar Chowdhury, Chairman of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority Rear Admiral Arif Ahmed Mustafa, and Director General of the Department of Shipping Commodore Md. Shafiul Bari, along with other senior officials and representatives from relevant organizations.