Photo : BSS

BARISHAL, March 14, 2026 (BSS) - Advance booking of launch cabins for Eid travelers on the Dhaka–Barishal river route has begun, with nearly all cabin tickets already sold out for several scheduled trips. 

Authorities say additional launches may be deployed if passenger pressure increases ahead of the festival.

Officials from launch operators reported that almost 100 percent of cabin tickets for launches traveling from Dhaka to Barishal during the Eid period were booked within two days of ticket sales opening. Meanwhile, around 70 percent of cabins for return trips from Barishal to Dhaka after the Eid holidays have also been reserved.

Despite a decline in passenger numbers on the route following the opening of the Padma Bridge, the demand for river travel traditionally rises during major festivals, including Eid. Many passengers still prefer the waterway for its comfort and convenience compared to road travel.

Zakir Hossain, manager of Sundarban Navigation Company on the Dhaka–Barishal route, said that sufficient launches have been kept ready for the Eid journey. “If we notice excessive passenger pressure, we will increase the number of launches,” he said.

Avijit, manager of the MV Aulad 10 launch, said ticket sales for journeys up to March 16 are already completed. “Tickets for March 18 are also fully booked, while a few seats remain available for March 19,” he added.

Passengers expressed satisfaction with the advance booking system, saying it helped them secure tickets without hassle. 

Sohan, a passenger on the Dhaka–Barishal river route, said travelers prefer a comfortable journey during the busy Eid season. “That’s why we came early to buy tickets, and fortunately tickets were available,” he said.

Aminul Islam, who came to purchase tickets for his relatives, said several members of his family would travel from Dhaka to Barishal to celebrate Eid. “I came to buy advance tickets so that everyone can travel together without problems,” he said.

Meanwhile, officials of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) said all preparations have been completed to ensure smooth Eid travel by river. Law enforcement agencies will assist in maintaining passenger safety and security.

Md. Asaduzzaman, a BIWTA official in Barishal, said there are currently 16 launches operating on the Dhaka–Barishal route. “All launches are ready for the Eid rush. We have made necessary arrangements so passengers can travel home without hassle. If needed, special launch services will be introduced,” he said.