Overloaded launches

Launch is one of the main public transports in Bangladesh. However, carrying more passengers than the capacity of a launch is a threat to the lives of people. Four launches used to leave for Dhaka every morning from Naria, Shariatpur. Now, only one launch is departing every morning for Dhaka. The reasons shown are increase in fuel price and lack of passengers. The syndicate of launch owners is taking all the passengers of Naria in one launch to reduce their operation costs. The result is the launch becomes overloaded. They are keeping other launches sitting. Problem is that the launch has to face strong currents while crossing the Padma and Meghna rivers. A small, overloaded launch may lead to major accident anytime and disrupt passenger services. The local authorities should intervene to stop the risky launch journey and ensure the passengers' safety.

Sifat Rabbani

Student

Department of Political Science

Jagannath University, Dhaka

Hometown: Naria , Shariatpur