The speedboat service was discontinued shortly after its inauguration
September 25, 20242 Mins Read
Own Correspondent, Gazipur: Circular speedboat service was introduced in Gazipur two years ago to relieve excess traffic. Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) launched this service. The speedboat service has been discontinued shortly after its grand opening. The authorities claimed that the service was closed within three months due to low ridership and high fares .

The speedboat service was discontinued shortly after its inauguration

It has been found that on September 10, 2022, speedboat service was launched from Tongi river port to Dhaka circular waterway. The speedboat operation was inaugurated by the then Minister of State for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury and the then Minister of State for Youth and Sports Zahid Ahsan Russell. They also inaugurated Tongi Eco Park at this time. Initially five speedboats plyed this route but later some more fast boats (speedboats) were to be added. Private initiative launched five speedboat services from Tongi and Abdullahpur to Kadda, Tongi to Ulukhola in Kaliganj. The rent was also determined. Plans were also taken to run speedboats from Kadda to Gabtali and from Gabtali to Sadarghat if passenger demand increased. The river passengers were excited about it. This speedboat service was stopped after a few days. No one in the river port area knew why it was closed.

Talked with Shamsul Haque, a local resident, at Kodda Bazar Nau Ghat. He said, 'I have only seen speedboats on Facebook. In fact, I can no longer see Aisa. It seems to have been going on for a few days. Now it doesn't work anymore. The speedboat service needed to be operational.'

Mehdi Hasan, a college student from Kathalliapara area, said, 'The speedboat was started but stopped after a few days. Had this program been on, it would have taken us less time to reach Dhaka. Besides, the beauty of the river could be enjoyed. One of the reasons behind the loss of deep connection with our rivers is the decrease in river transport facilities.

Awlad Hossain, a sailor in the Tongi river port area, said that a few speedboats were launched with much fanfare a few years ago. Newspapers are also written. After a few days, the speedboats were no longer seen. We cross the river. Speedboats are good for going long distances in a short time.'

Tongi River Port Assistant Director asked why circular speedboat service stopped. Shah Alam said, 'The service was stopped three months after its launch. There were complaints that passengers were not available and fares were high. Besides, Arbajana was tied to the fan of the speedboat in winter. Due to which the drivers were having difficulty in driving the speedboat. That's why the service has stopped.'

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