Govt settles launch fare issue today

Launch operators sit with the government today (Monday) for discussion as owners have proposed cent percent hike in fare following the recent fuel tariff hike.
However, it is alleged that some operators are overcharging passengers at Dhaka River Port Terminal at Sadarghat in the capital.
But Bangladesh Inland Waterways (Passenger Carriers) Association secretary Siddiqur Rahman Patwary says no launch operator can take extra fare from passengers unless revised by the government and launch owners.
A shipping ministry official told the FE on Sunday about today's meeting at the ministry with shipping secretary Mostofa Kamal in the chair.
Launch operators will propose the ministry for a 100-per cent fare hike considering the increased fuel oil prices and other costs.
It is said that owners have been running their business despite incurring financial losses due to a reduction in the number of passengers following the commissioning of Padma Bridge.
Following a hike in fuel oils on August 05 by the government, bus operators have increased fare as per a government decision that took effect on Sunday.
According to launch operators, they have no alternative but to raise launch fares. Mr Patwary tells the FE that the adjustment of launch fares will be discussed in the meeting.
"We'll propose that the government raise cent percent launch fares to offset our financial losses," he says.
Presently, deck fare for a launch passenger on Dhaka-Barisal route is around Tk 352.
Deck fare and other classes will be raised notably in line with the increased fuel costs, he hints.
The launch service has been facing a tough time after the opening of Padma Bridge as many passengers now travel by bus to save time.
According to Mr Patwary, 80-per cent launch cabins now remain unsold as passengers of southern districts prefer to travel by bus.

talhabinhabib@yahoo.com