The government has opened a new launch terminal in the capital’s Bosila area to provide smoother waterway travel for passengers heading home for Eid-ul-Fitr.
State Minister for Shipping Md Rajib Ahsan inaugurated the Bosila Launch Ghat on Monday afternoon, with Shipping Ministry Secretary Nurunnahar Chowdhury and other officials present.
From 17 March until the day before Eid, six launches will depart daily from the new terminal for various destinations.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, the state minister said the initiative aims to reduce congestion at Sadarghat Launch Terminal and ease the journey for passengers from different parts of the capital.
“Considering the overwhelming crowds at Sadarghat during Eid and the difficulties passengers face traveling from various parts of the capital to reach there, this new launch ghat has been opened alongside Sadarghat,” Ahsan said.
He expressed hope that the new terminal would somewhat reduce passenger congestion and make travel easier, particularly benefiting residents of Mohammadpur, Dhanmondi, Savar, Gabtoli and surrounding areas.
Local residents gathered at the newly opened terminal expressed delight as news of the inauguration spread.
BIWTA Chairman Arif Ahmed Mostafa assured that like previous years, no launches will be allowed to carry excess passengers. “All necessary measures have been taken to ensure passengers’ safe and comfortable travel,” he said.
BIWTA sources said the number of launches from Bosila would be increased if necessary, depending on passenger pressure.
