State Minister for the Ministry of Shipping and Bridge Division, Md. Rajib Ahsan, has announced that all vessels in the country will be brought under digital registration within the shortest possible time to ensure safe, orderly, and modern waterways. He also stated that a comprehensive policy will be formulated to ensure proper registration, operation, and discipline in water transport.
He disclosed these plans on Sunday, April 5, at noon during an exchange meeting held at the headquarters of the Department of Shipping in Agargaon in the capital, aimed at resolving the fuel crisis of lighter vessels engaged in cargo transportation.
The meeting was attended by Dr. Nurunnahar Chowdhury, NDC, Secretary of the Ministry of Shipping; Rear Admiral Arif Ahmed Mostafa, Chairman of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority; Commodore Md. Shafiul Bari, Director General of the Department of Shipping; along with senior officials of the ministry and representatives from various related organizations.
In his address as chair, State Minister Rajib Ahsan said that there is currently no fuel shortage affecting passenger or cargo vessels, and water transport operations are continuing normally. However, the Ministry of Shipping is taking several effective measures to address any potential future fuel shortages. As part of these initiatives, a coordination cell will be formed to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply to vessels. Additionally, coordination meetings will be held with fuel supply companies.
The current government remains committed to maintaining normal and safe navigation. Calling on all vessels operating on the country’s waterways to comply with legal regulations, the State Minister emphasized that, in the context of the global fuel crisis, everyone must adopt a cautious and economical approach. He warned that no form of illegal stockpiling or wastage will be tolerated.
DBTech/KAB/MUIM/OR
