Due to thick fog across the country, the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) has announced a complete suspension of all types of waterborne transport. The directive came into effect on Sunday, 28 December, from 6:00 pm, and will remain in place until further notice.
Mr. Md. Solaiman, an official in BIWTA’s Maritime Safety and Traffic Management Division, confirmed the announcement to The Daily Star. He stated:
“From 6:00 pm this evening, no vessel has been permitted to operate. Likewise, no launches or other types of boats are leaving any river ports across the country.”
The authority emphasised that the decision has been taken primarily to safeguard passengers and vessels, after a series of accidents occurred on various inland waterways due to poor visibility caused by the persistent fog.
Reports indicate that since midnight on Friday, multiple incidents have occurred in Chandpur, Narayanganj, and other parts of the country, involving passenger launches and cargo vessels colliding. Tragically, at least six people have lost their lives, and twenty others sustained injuries in these accidents.
BIWTA officials have urged the public to avoid travelling by water until visibility conditions improve. They also advised vessel operators to adhere strictly to safety directives and remain in port until further notice.
For clarity, the key details of the suspension are summarised below:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Authority | Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) |
| Effective From | 28 December, 6:00 pm |
| Duration | Until further notice |
| Reason | Dense fog causing poor visibility and multiple accidents |
| Recent Accidents | Collisions of passenger and cargo vessels in Chandpur, Narayanganj, and other areas |
| Casualties | 6 dead, 20 injured |
| Advisory | All waterborne travel suspended; operators instructed to stay in port |
The BIWTA stressed that the decision, though disruptive, is essential for preventing further accidents and ensuring the safety of both passengers and crew. Authorities will continue to monitor weather and river conditions closely and announce the resumption of services only when it is deemed completely safe.
This nationwide suspension highlights the vulnerability of inland water transport during adverse weather and serves as a stern reminder for both operators and passengers to prioritise safety above all else.