The century-old paddle steamer PS Mahsud has been officially reintroduced as a dedicated pleasure cruise on domestic river routes, aiming to showcase Bangladesh’s rich riverine heritage to future generations.
Shipping Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hussain inaugurated the vessel on Saturday morning at Sadarghat, according to a press release from the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing.
Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy on International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi and senior government officials were also present.
Speaking at the launch, Dr Sakhawat said the renewed PS Mahsud would act as “a unique bridge between Bangladesh’s heritage and river-based tourism.”
The vessel is set to begin its regular tourism service on the Dhaka–Barishal route from November 21.
He added that Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus had expressed his pleasure at the restoration and re-launch of the historic BIWTC paddle steamer.
“PS Mahsud is not just a vessel; it is a living symbol of Bangladesh’s riverine culture and heritage. We want the new generation to witness how rivers once served as the lifeline of communication and culture,” he said.
Dr Sakhawat also announced plans to restore several other historic steamers; including PS Ostrich, PS Lepcha and PS Tern, to further preserve river heritage and expand opportunities for river tourism.
Shipping Secretary Dr Nurun Nahar Chowdhury said the relaunch would draw both local and international tourists. For foreign visitors, the cruise will offer traditional Bangladeshi cuisine, live Bangla music and other cultural experiences.
Officials from Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) said the renovation maintained the vessel’s original structure and historic design while fully upgrading its engine, safety and fire-protection systems.
The steamer now features modern cabins, improved decks and a digital navigation system.
PS Mahsud will operate from Dhaka to Barishal every Friday and Barishal to Dhaka every Saturday, departing Sadarghat at 8:00 AM and arriving at night.
Passengers will enjoy a travel experience that blends scenic beauty with the history and heritage of Bangladesh’s rivers.
To ensure safety, BIWTC has equipped the steamer with international-standard lifeboats, fire safety gear and GPS navigation.
The upgraded engine uses low-emission technology to help reduce environmental impact.
Previously a night-only service, the shift to daytime travel is expected to attract more tourists eager to enjoy the rivers and their landscapes, officials added.
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