Tragic deaths in launch disaster

Death in waterways has become a regular phenomenon in our country. More than 54 people (according to last report) died when the ill-fated motor launch MV Mostafa, was knocked down by a cargo vessel and capsized in the Padma River. The number of deaths is likely to rise further and the exact number can not be known until the rescue operation is over. Incidents of such disasters are on the increase. But we have a habit of waking up after a disaster takes place and soon we forget about it and the entire incident slips into oblivion. We know a committee will be formed to investigate into the incident which will probably submit a report later with recommendations that will never be taken care of.
But it is indeed high time that we make our river journey safer after carefully going through the reports of similar accidents that took place from time to time. Apparently, carrying passengers beyond capacity has become an everyday affair with our water vessel operators. In last six years around 400 people have lost their lives in four major launch accidents. We have to discard our apathetic attitude towards waterway safety, as every year thousands of people travel through it. Bangladesh is a country of rivers and rivulets. Rivers are our lifeline. We hope those who lost their near and dear ones will get due compensation so that they do not land on financial crisis. It is high time the government takes concrete steps to make the waterway safe and secure for the passengers.
Nadim Javed
Tejgoan, Dhaka.