Century-old paddle steamer PS Mahsud to return to Dhaka-Barishal route: Adviser Sakhawat
PS Mahsud, a century-old steamer of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC), will be added to a river-centric tourism service next month on the Dhaka–Barishal route
The century-old heritage paddle steamer PS Mahsud is set to resume operation on the Dhaka–Barishal river route, marking the revival of a historic chapter in Bangladesh's river transport heritage, Shipping Adviser Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain said today (24 October).
"The steamer is now fully prepared. Through today's trial run, we are assessing its mechanical and navigational readiness. The official inauguration on the Dhaka–Barishal route will take place on 15 November with a grand event, after which it will operate as a regular tourism service," he said.
The adviser made the remarks while speaking during a trial trip of the vessel on the Dhaka–Munshiganj route from Sadarghat, reads a ministry press release.
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This is not just a vessel, it is a living symbol of Bangladesh's riverine culture and heritage, Sakhawat said, adding, "We want the new generation to witness how river routes once formed the lifeline of communication and culture in this country."
PS Mahsud, a century-old steamer of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC), will be added to a river-centric tourism service next month on the Dhaka–Barishal route.
The adviser further mentioned that BIWTC plans to restore several other historic steamers, including PS Ostrich, PS Lepcha, and PS Turn, as part of efforts to preserve river heritage and expand river-based tourism.
"Once, rivers were the arteries of Bengal's life," Sakhawat reflected. "We want people to rediscover their connection with the rivers."
The restoration and modernisation of PS Mahsud retained its original design and wooden structure while upgrading its engine, safety, and fire protection systems. The vessel now features modern cabins, tourist-friendly decks, and digital navigation systems.
The steamer will operate weekly—departing from Dhaka for Barishal every Friday and returning from Barishal to Dhaka on Saturdays—offering passengers a unique experience of riverine beauty, history, and culture.
To ensure safety, PS Mahsud has been equipped with international-standard safety gear, lifeboats, fire safety measures, and GPS tracking.
The refurbished engine now uses low-emission technology to help reduce river pollution. A team of 25 trained officers and crew members will manage its operations.
