State Minister: People having anti-Ganga Vilas sentiment don’t want good relation with India

Those who are opposing entry of MV Ganga Vilas in this country – world's longest river cruise vessel travelling through Indian and Bangladesh – do not want relation improvement with India.

State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury came up with this remark on Thursday after attending the Deputy Commissioner (DC) conference held at capital’s Osmani Memorial Auditorium.

“This is a great opportunity for our tourism; India-Bangladesh bilateral relation will reach a unique height,” he said.

The 'Made in India' vessel MV Ganga Vilas, operated by Antara Cruises began its journey from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh on January 13, sailing 3,200 km waterways, touching 27 river systems of India and Bangladesh, would reach Dibrugarh in Assam via Bangladesh in 51 days.

The state minister added, “MV Ganga Vilas will cross Khulna’s Koira on February 3 and completing procedures of customs and immigration there, we will officially welcome the vessel at Mongla port on February 4.”

“The vessel will go to India through many tourist spots of multiple districts. I have told the district administrators to monitor this matter closely,” Khalid furthered.

MV Ganga Vilas

The cruise was initially expected to be launched in 2020 but got delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The maiden cruise started sailing on January 13, 2023, from Varanasi after Indian Premier Narendra Modi’s flagging off, and is expected to arrive at its final destination – Dibrugarh – on March 1, 2023.

The vessel has three decks, 18 suites on board with a capacity of carrying 36 tourists and having all luxury amenities. The maiden voyage has 32 tourists from Switzerland signing up for the entire length of the journey, reports Times of India.

Operated by Kolkata-based company Antara Luxury River Cruise that says the trip costs approximately Rs 13 lakh per person, or $15,300 for the all-inclusive package with expeditions, sightseeing and entertainment for the 51-day duration – that’s roughly Rs 25,000, or $300, per day, the Indian media also reported.

The vessel’s route is around 3200 kilometres among 1100 kilometres of Bangladeshi territory. The luxury ship will make stoppages in 50 tourist destinations of both countries.