State Minister for Shipping and Bridges Md. Razib Ahsan announced that all inland vessels in the country will be brought under a digital registration system to ensure safe, disciplined and modern waterway transport.

The announcement came during a meeting at Department of Shipping headquarters in Dhaka’s Agargaon, which also focused on addressing fuel supply for cargo-carrying lighter vessels.

The State Minister said a comprehensive policy will be formulated to regulate vessel registration, operations and adherence to safety standards.

He emphasized that these measures form part of the government’s broader initiative to modernize the country’s inland waterways.

Regarding fuel supply, Md. Razib Ahsan confirmed that there is no current shortage affecting passenger or cargo vessels and operations are running normally.

Nevertheless, the ministry is proactively preparing for potential global fuel challenges by establishing a coordination cell to ensure uninterrupted supply and holding regular meetings with fuel suppliers.

He also urged vessel operators to comply with all existing laws and warned against illegal fuel stockpiling or wastage, noting the importance of efficient management amid the global energy situation.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Nurun Nahar Chowdhury Admiral Arif Ahmed Mustafa, Chairman of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority; Commodore Md. Shafiul Bari, Director General of Department of Shipping; and other senior officials and representatives from relevant organizations.