From August 20 to 29, Bangladesh will conduct its inaugural nationwide boat census to establish a comprehensive database of all engine-powered vessels operating in the country's maritime, coastal, and inland waterways. This census, a collaborative effort by the Department of Shipping and the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, aims to improve water transport safety, reduce accidents, enhance livelihoods in the sector, and support overall water transport development and planning.
The census identified 2,44,808 engine-powered vessels, including 1,74,047 ghat-based and 70,761 household-based vessels. In Khulna Division alone, 10,327 vessels were listed, comprising 7,414 ghat-based and 2,913 household-based vessels. This information was shared during a divisional stakeholders' awareness seminar in Khulna, emphasizing the importance of reliable statistics for national development plans.
Khulna Divisional Commissioner Md. Abdullah Harun highlighted the significance of all national censuses, urging media and stakeholders' cooperation for the successful completion of the boat census. The seminar was chaired by Khulna Additional Divisional Commissioner (General) Abu Sayeed Md. Manjur Alam, with key officials and special guests in attendance.
The census will cover all engine-powered vessels, including dumb barges and other non-engine-powered vessels towed or pushed by mechanized vessels. However, it will exclude vessels owned and operated by the armed forces. The initiative is expected to provide valuable data for enhancing safety, reducing accidents, and supporting the development of Bangladesh's water transport infrastructure.





























