The long-awaited modern sea truck service on the Pekua–Kutubdia route has been officially inaugurated. On Sunday, the state-of-the-art vessel, ‘ST Bhasha Shahid Jabbar’, commenced operations, marking a significant milestone in coastal transportation.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr M. Sakhawat Hussain, Advisor to the Ministry of Shipping and the Ministry of Labour and Employment, as the chief guest.
Speaking at the event, the shipping adviser stated that the introduction of modern sea trucks on the Pekua–Kutubdia and Cox’s Bazar–Maheshkhali routes opens up new opportunities for coastal travel.
“Journey times will be reduced, passenger discomfort minimized, and safer, more comfortable travel ensured,” he said. He reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity for coastal and island communities.
The new service is expected to boost local business, tourism, and emergency service operations. Plans are also underway to expand the fleet of modern vessels in the near future.
Also present at the ceremony were Arif Ahmed Mostafa, Chairman of BIWTA; Professor Dr Mohammad Zainal Abedin, Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University of Engineering & Technology; Cox’s Bazar Deputy Commissioner M.A. Mannan; Additional Deputy Commissioner Nazim Uddin, and senior officials from various government departments.
Following the inauguration, the sea truck departed from Mognama Jetty at 1 pm and reached Boroghop Jetty by 1:30 pm. Hundreds of locals gathered at the jetty to catch a glimpse of the vessel.
BIWTA Chairman Arif Ahmed Mostafa assured that the highest safety standards will be maintained, with all necessary measures in place to ensure punctuality and order on the route.
Residents hope the introduction of this modern sea truck service will significantly ease the long-standing travel difficulties faced by the people of Pekua and Kutubdia.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Courtesy
