Authorities have taken extensive preparations to manage the surge of passengers on waterways ahead of Eid-ul-Azha.
More than a hundred additional launches have been kept ready, and discounted cabin fares are being offered to attract travelers.
The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) said a total of 172 launches have been prepared at Sadarghat Terminal to ensure smooth Eid travel. While 50 to 55 launches usually operate during normal periods, additional vessels are being added during the Eid season.
Launch owners said cabin fares are being offered at prices lower than the government-fixed rates to attract passengers. Although the official fare for a single cabin is Tk 1,716, it is being offered for Tk 1,200.
To ensure safety on waterways, boat movement around the pontoons has been prohibited. At the same time, patrols by the river police have been strengthened in the pontoon areas.
River police officials said four patrol teams have been deployed from Pontoon No. 1 to No. 25 at Sadarghat. Special monitoring is being carried out to prevent unauthorized boats from entering by bypassing patrols.
In addition, measures have been taken to ensure a hawker-free environment, introduce free porter services, and maintain round-the-clock monitoring through watchtowers. Authorities have also instructed launches to depart early if they reach full passenger capacity before the scheduled time.
Officials said no launch will be allowed to operate without permission, with the primary goal of ensuring a safe and accident-free Eid journey.
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