Bangladesh will conduct its first nationwide “Vessel Census 2026” from August 20 to 29 to support safer, orderly and more effective water transport. The Ministry of Shipping will carry out the census with assistance from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, State Minister for Shipping Md. Rajib Ahsan said on August 11. He spoke while opening a three-day training programme for coordinators responsible for data collection at Bangladesh Statistics Bhaban in the capital.

Ahsan said Bangladesh’s rivers and waterways are deeply connected to the economy, commerce and daily life, but their potential has not yet been fully used. He said pressure on road transport for passengers and freight is increasing, and the government has taken initiatives to ensure the maximum and effective use of waterways. He said greater waterway use could support trade, cargo and passenger transport, tourism and economic activity.

The census is expected to provide reliable information on the actual number, type, use and ownership of vessels, helping future planning, policymaking and measures for safer navigation. Planning State Minister Jonaed Saki called for professionalism, transparency and neutrality in data collection, warning that legal action would be taken over any discrepancies, irregularities or inconsistencies.