Bangladesh’s century-old paddle steamer PS Mahsud has been relaunched as a luxury river cruise vessel to promote the nation’s riverine heritage and boost tourism. The vessel was inaugurated at Dhaka’s Sadarghat by Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hossain, adviser to the Ministry of Shipping, with senior government officials in attendance. The steamer will begin regular tourist service on the Dhaka-Barishal route from November 21, offering passengers scenic daytime journeys. The restoration preserved its historic design while upgrading engines, safety systems, and navigation with modern technology, including low-emission engines to reduce river pollution. The cruise will feature traditional Bangladeshi cuisine, live music, and cultural performances to attract both domestic and foreign tourists. Officials also announced plans to renovate other historic steamers such as PS Ostrich, PS Lepcha, and PS Turn to further develop river tourism and preserve Bangladesh’s maritime legacy.