290 small vessels seized in Buriganga

The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) with the law enforcement agencies in a drive seized at least 290 cargo vessels and boats in the Buriganga River yesterday.
BIWTA sources said Coast Guard, Rab, maritime police and BIWTA officials conducted the drive from Jazeera under South Keraniganj to Kholamora under Keraniganj Model Police Station from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. The drive would continue overnight.
They intercepted and seized 100 cargo vessels, 120 sand-loaded Belgrade and 60-70 engine-propelled goods-laden boats in two hours till 9:00pm on charge of plying in the river at night violating government order.
Locals alleged that the cargo vessels were plying after sunset in the river by managing a section of officials of the concerned department and some members of the law-enforcement agencies with money.
Earlier, the BIWTA imposed ban on plying cargo vessels and goods carrying water crafts at night to ensure a safe river zone.
The authorities issued warning that tougher action will be taken against cargo vessels and motorized boats if they defy the ban in future.