Bangladesh Launch Owners Propose Up to 42% Fare Increase Amid Diesel Price Rise

Launch owners in Bangladesh have proposed raising passenger fares by up to 42% following a diesel price increase from Tk 100 to Tk 115 per litre, effective April 19. The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Association suggests fares of Tk 3.77 per kilometre for trips up to 100 kilometres and Tk 3.38 for longer distances, with the minimum fare increasing from Tk 29 to Tk 35.

Operating costs have surged by approximately 50% due to rising prices of diesel and materials. The decline in waterway passenger numbers, attributed to improvements in road transport, has added financial strain, prompting owners to seek necessary fare adjustments to sustain operations. Without such changes, the viability of the launch business is at risk.