Route permits of launches will be revoked if they charge excess fare during Eid: Shipping Adviser

With the upcoming Eid approaching, the Shipping Adviser to the Ministry of Shipping, Dr. Md. Sakhawat Hossain, has issued a strong warning to launch operators, saying that charging higher fares than the approved rates will result in the cancellation of their route permits. 

He also stressed that launches must follow the prescribed speed limits.

In a meeting with journalists at the Secretariat on Thursday, Dr. Sakhawat shared his concerns and announced measures to ensure a smooth and safe Eid travel experience for passengers.

He highlighted the importance of keeping the road from Zero Point to Sadarghat in Dhaka open from the 15th of Ramadan to avoid unnecessary congestion. 

He particularly pointed out that buses should not stop in random areas, especially near Golapshah Mazar, where disturbances often occur.

In terms of passenger safety, the Shipping Adviser confirmed that each launch would have a designated commander and three Ansar personnel on board to maintain order and security. 

He also made it clear that no launches should break their schedules, and if violations occur, their licenses could be revoked. 

"No extra fare can be charged beyond the set fare. Fare charts must be displayed starting today. If an excessive fare is charged, the route permit of the launch will be canceled," he said.

To prevent overcrowding, Dr. Sakhawat further announced that the Navy Police, Coast Guard, and Naval Forces would be keeping a close watch on launches to ensure no extra passengers are allowed. 

However, he clarified that unnecessary searches of launches would not be conducted.

Addressing concerns about the safety and operational readiness of launches, the Adviser added, "From the 15th of Ramadan, speedboats and bulkheads will not be allowed to operate. Launches must be fit for service, and passenger safety will always remain the top priority."

Finally, Dr. Sakhawat promised to personally oversee the entire process, saying, "We must ensure the public does not suffer. I will personally supervise the entire process. I will visit Sadarghat myself."