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Passenger launch fares have been increased by 7.54 percent following the recent hike in fuel prices, with the new rates coming into effect on Wednesday.
The minimum fare has been raised from Tk32 to Tk35, while fares for longer routes have also increased.
For the first 100 kilometres, the fare has risen by 23 paisa per kilometre, from Tk2.95 to Tk3.18. For distances beyond 100 kilometres, the rate has increased by 20 paisa to Tk2.72 per kilometre from Tk2.52.
Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam confirmed the revised fares at the Secretariat on Wednesday.
He said launch owners had demanded a 15 percent fare increase, citing higher fuel prices and operating costs. However, the government approved a 7.54 percent increase considering the interests of passengers.
Gholam Nabi Alamgir, president of the Inland Waterways Transport Owners Association, said the owners had proposed a higher increase but accepted the revised rates considering the country’s current economic situation.
Earlier, launch owners had formally requested a substantial increase in passenger fares following the fuel price hike. They had sought a 51–60 percent increase in fares per kilometre for passengers.