Bangladesh’s Minister for Road Transport, Railways, and Shipping, Sheikh Robiul Alam, has issued strict instructions to enhance safety in ferry operations. Speaking to reporters on Sunday, March 29, 2026, after a high-level meeting at the Secretariat, he announced that from now on, all passengers must disembark from buses before they are loaded onto ferries. No bus carrying passengers will be allowed to board under any circumstances.

The minister also stated that installing railings on ferries will be made mandatory to ensure adequate safety. He explained that accidents often occur when vehicles board or leave ferries or when ferries are hit by waves, and such risks can be reduced through railing installations. Sheikh Robiul Alam emphasized the government’s responsibility to protect lives and said the new rule would be strictly enforced.

Senior officials from relevant ministries and law enforcement agencies attended the meeting. According to ministry sources, the directive is expected to strengthen public safety at ferry terminals across the country.