The New Nation - Internet Edition

Our Correspondent, Barisal

Five out of eight sea trucks deployed by Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation ( BIWTC)for safe navigation on risky and cyclone prone coastal routes, are now inoperative exposing thousands of water route users to many hazards.

The five sea trucks have been withdrawn from operation either due to repair work, crisis of spare parts or financial losses incurred by the private operators who took lease.

Some of the sea trucks were built the country and some others were procured from China under credit scheme.

ST Khizie-5 ,which used to ply on Mirzakau- Char Alexander route, is now lying at the dock for repair since October 15.

The operator of ST Khizir-7 has stopped its service since October 23 citing financial losses.

The lease contract of ST Khizir-8 on Barisal-Bhola-Laxipur routes expired on October 16.

These sea trucks not only carried passengers but also merchandises. Suspension of their operation is causing immense inconveniences to both passengers and businessmen of the coastal areas. In the absence of sea trucks people are now going to various destinations in the coastal belt by small boats and trawlers exposing themselves to the risk of storm and other hazards.The reduction of the operation schedule of the Dhaka-Barisal-Khulna Rocket service has also added to the woes of the people of coastal areas. The operation of the rocket service has been reduced to two days a week from four days a week. When contacted , high officials of BIWTC assured that immediate steps will be taken to press all the sea trucks into service again in the coastal areas.