MANIKGANJ: Shipping Minister Shahjahan Khan said the government would let India and Nepal use Chittagong and Mongla seaports in order to reap economic benefits, as the presnt government has agreed on transit facilities for the two neigbours.

“Friendly relationships would be strengthened with neighbouring countries and we will also reap the benefits economically,” the Minister said while visiting Paturia-Daulatdia Ferry Ghat Saturday.

He said the government has taken initiative for ensuring smooth movement of ferries through dredging so that passengers do not suffer during the Eid-ul-Fitr.

The government will also operate ‘utility ferry` for saving time and costs of passengers--and two such ferry vessels are now ready, he told his audince on the major river route crossing over two mighty rivers—the Padma and the Jamuna.

The minister said a service charge would be introduced soon to prevent toll-collection in the transport sector. “We have decided in principle to introduce the service charge.”

Later, he attended the biennial conference of motor workers’ union at Goalonda Shilpakola Academy auditorium.

Deputy Commissioner of Rajbari Syeda Shahana Bari, Police Super Ainul Bari, Shibaloy upazilla chairman Abdur Rahim Khan, BIWTC’s local officials, local Awami League leaders and leaders of labourers’ organizations were present.
         
BDST: 1759 HRS, JULY 17, 2010