Adviser warns launch operators of route permit cancellation

Shipping Adviser Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hussain warned on Thursday of cancelling route permit, if any launche is involved in jumping the queue for taking passengers during the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr festival.

"Launches can't jump the line. We have discussed it at the meeting in the presence of the launch owners. We'll take lawful action," he told the media after a meeting on safety of river passengers during the Eid festival at the Ministry of Shipping.

Mr M Sakhawat Hussain said some more decisions were taken during the meeting which will be implemented from the 15th Ramadan. Roads from Zero Point to Sadarghat Launch Terminal in the city must be kept free from traffic jam during the month of fasting.

He said buses would not be allowed to pick up passengers from different spots apart from designated bus stops in the route. He urged the policemen to get tough with unruly drivers.

He also expressed his dismay at the persistent traffic jam from Golap Shah Mazar to Sadarghat Launch Terminal every day. Traffic jam in the route is so unbearable that people sometimes cannot get to Sadarghat Launch Terminal to catch launch.

Launch owners said they would adhere to the govt decision in the interests of passengers.

talhabinhabib@yahoo.com