App to hire cargo vessels on waterways launched
The app will help a user book a ship to and from various destinations, trace location of the ship, buy goods like sands, stone chips and coals
FE Report | Monday, 9 September 2019
A Bangladeshi company has launched a new smartphone application called 'Jahaji' to facilitate hiring cargo vessels plying through inland waterways.
The app, first of its kind, will also provide other cargo vessel related services including ship booking, location tracking and virtual marketplace for owners, suppliers, and agents.
State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury inaugurated the app as the chief guest at a launching ceremony held at the National Press Club on Sunday.
Former president of Bangladesh Cargo Vessel Owner's Association Mahbub Uddin Ahmed (Bir Bikram) and information technology consultant Naimuzzaman Mukta attended the function as the special guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury said Bangladesh has been making a significant economic growth in the recent years on the back of political stability.
He said the government is now paying more attention on blue economy.
Lauding the new app, Mr Chowdhury said, "We (shipping sector) will welcome any entrepreneur who wants to work in the sector."
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the service providing organisation Md Abdullah Al Shariatullah informed guests about various aspects of the app.
With the slogan 'shaping your shipping' the app will help a user book a ship to and from various destinations, trace location of the ship, buy goods like sands, stone chips and coals.
It was mentioned at the event that there were around 30,000 lighter cargo vessels in the country though it was nearly 7,000 as per the government data.
Local cargo vessels plying in domestic waterways earn around Tk 30 billion per year.
The android version of the app has already been available at Google Play, while the iOS version will be developed soon.