Dhaka Sadarghat: The Historic and Modern River Port Connecting Southern Bangladesh

 

Dhaka Sadarghat: The Historic and Modern River Port Connecting Southern Bangladesh
Dhaka’s Sadarghat is one of the oldest and busiest river ports in Bangladesh. Located on the banks of the Buriganga River, it dates back to the Mughal era, when it was established as a vital hub for trade and transportation. During British colonial rule, Sadarghat expanded in scale and importance. For centuries, it has served as a key point of entry and connection between Dhaka and the southern regions of the country.


🏗️ Modern Sadarghat: A Transformation in Progress
Today, Sadarghat is much more than just a relic of the past. It stands as a vital, modern river terminal that serves hundreds of thousands of commuters every day. The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) has implemented several upgrades to modernize the port and improve passenger experience.

Key Modern Facilities:
New Terminal Buildings – With waiting areas, shelters, and clearly marked entry/exit gates for passengers.
Digital Ticketing System – Several launch companies now offer online booking to avoid long queues.
Surveillance Cameras – CCTV systems cover key areas of the port, monitored by the BIWTA for security.
Enhanced Security – River police, private security personnel, and mobile magistrate courts ensure safe operations.
Improved Infrastructure – Roads around the terminal have been upgraded to allow smoother access for rickshaws, CNGs, and emergency vehicles.

📊 Capacity and Daily Operations
Sadarghat serves as the primary waterway link between Dhaka and multiple districts in southern Bangladesh. Its daily operations are massive, both in terms of passenger and cargo movement.

Key Facts & Figures:
Daily Launch Traffic – An average of 150–200 passenger launches dock here every day.
Passenger Flow – Approximately 150,000 to 200,000 people use Sadarghat daily.
Goods Transport – Agricultural goods like rice, onions, fish, and fruits are regularly transported via this port.
Major Destinations – Barisal, Bhola, Patuakhali, Chandpur, Khulna, Jhalokathi, Madaripur, Hatiya, Pirojpur, among others.
Economic Role – Thousands of small traders, vendors, port workers, and travelers rely on this hub for their livelihoods, contributing significantly to the local economy.

Future Development Plans

To make Sadarghat a “Model River Port,” the government and BIWTA have introduced ambitious long-term plans aimed at making the port smarter, safer, and more efficient.

Planned Upgrades:
Floating Modern Jetties
Separate Terminals for Cargo and Passengers
Smart Ticketing Kiosks & Mobile Apps
Real-Time Launch Tracking Systems
Eco-Friendly Waste Management Solutions