Narayanganj Correspondent

Shipping Minister Sheikh Robiul Alam on Tuesday announced that the government has initiated plans to permanently integrate the island district of Bhola with the national mainland through major road and bridge infrastructure projects within the next four to five years.

The Minister disclosed the master plan during a press briefing held this afternoon following the formal inauguration of the direct Dhaka/Narayanganj (Kanchpur)–Bhola (Ilisha) ferry service at Kanchpur in Siddhirganj, Narayanganj.

Addressing journalists, Minister Sheikh Robiul Alam noted that the absence of direct road connectivity has long forced Bhola's residents to rely solely on seasonal waterways. He affirmed that while a permanent land link via road and bridge infrastructure is being formulated as a long-term solution, direct ferry operations will remain active to ensure seamless transit for passengers and freight.

The Minister recalled that experimental ferry operations on the Kanchpur–Ilisha route commenced on August 27. Early operational assessments revealed significant demand from passengers, private vehicles, pickups, and cargo trucks. Currently, two ferries—Begum Sufia Kamal and Begum Rokeya—are operating daily, covering the route in approximately eight hours.

Given the overwhelming public response, the Minister indicated that authorities are considering increasing the fleet size on this route.

The launch of the direct Kanchpur–Ilisha ferry service is expected to significantly boost trade, healthcare access, and regional commerce between Bhola and the capital city.

Secretary to the Ministry of Shipping Zakaria and Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) Chairman A.T.M. Abdul Bari were present at the inauguration alongside senior officials.