State Minister for Shipping Rajib Ahsan has urged maximum caution in river transport of passengers, sacrificial animals, and cargo ahead of Eid-ul-Azha and the monsoon season. Speaking at the 'Naval Safety Week' event at the Ladies Club in Eskaton, Dhaka, on Sunday, he emphasized that all vessels must maintain proper fitness and route permits. He warned that any negligence in monitoring would result in strict action against those responsible.

The minister noted that while major river accidents in Bangladesh have decreased compared to previous years, continued progress requires greater responsibility from vessel owners, workers, and relevant departments. He criticized the practice of artificially preparing ships for inspection and directed officials to conduct regular field visits. He also prohibited the operation of risky vessels during the turbulent monsoon period.

Expressing concern over unfit trawlers and speedboats operating on smaller routes during Eid, Ahsan called on the river police and coast guard to strengthen surveillance. He stressed that saving time should never come at the cost of human lives and highlighted the need for modern vessels to address challenges such as river narrowing and emerging shoals.