State Minister for Shipping Rajib Ahsan spoke to the journalists after visiting the Chandpur Launch Terminal this afternoon. Photo: BSS

CHANDPUR, May 31, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Shipping Rajib Ahsan today said that the country's traditional water transport system can regain its lost heritage by maintaining navigability of waterways. 

“We want waterways to regain their lost heritage. If we can modernize the pontoons at launch terminals and keep river routes operational through dredging, water transport will once again become a trusted mode of travel for the people,” he made the remarks while talking to the journalists after visiting the Chandpur Launch Terminal here this afternoon.

Addressing the issue of century-old steamers, the state minister said the aging vessels have undergone repeated repairs over the years. Although one steamer remains operational, the others are no longer suitable for regular passenger service on waterways. 

“Passenger safety must be given the highest priority,” he said, adding, “At the same time, we are considering alternative ways to utilize these historic steamers so that they can continue to serve the public in some capacity.” 

Ahsan further said that the Ministry of Shipping would continue its efforts to ensure safe and reliable transportation for the citizens. 

“Our goal is to re-establish waterway transportation as a reliable and trustworthy mode of transportation for the people,” he added. 

Among others, Chairman of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) Arif Ahmed Mostafa, its member Rakibul Islam Talukdar, Administrator of Chandpur Zila Parishad and General Secretary of the Chandpur district BNP Advocate Selim Ullah Selim and Deputy Director of the BIWTA Chandpur Md. Kamruzzaman accompanied the state minister.