The PS Mahsud, a paddle steamer with a century-old history, has been transformed into a luxurious cruise ship to highlight Bangladesh’s rich river heritage. Starting from November 21, the vessel will embark on weekly “heritage cruises” along the Dhaka-Barishal route, as announced by the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing. The relaunch ceremony was inaugurated by Shipping Adviser Brigadier General Retd M Sakhawat Hussain at Sadarghat in the capital.
Officials from the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) revealed that the vessel will set sail from Sadarghat every Friday at 8 am, reaching Barishal by nightfall and returning the following day. They emphasized that the restoration of the steamer retained its original design while enhancing its engine and safety features.
During the launch event, Adviser Hussain emphasized that the PS Mahsud symbolizes Bangladesh’s river culture and heritage, serving as a reminder of how rivers once connected communities and cultures. He also unveiled plans to restore other historic steamers, including the PS Ostrich, PS Lepcha, and PS Tern, to promote river tourism and preserve the country’s river legacy.
Shipping Secretary Nurun Nahar Chowdhury expressed optimism that the reintroduction of the paddle steamer will attract tourists both domestically and internationally. Foreign visitors are expected to enjoy authentic Bangladeshi cuisine, traditional music, and cultural performances while on board.
This initiative addresses a longstanding request from residents of southern Bangladesh for the revival of paddle steamer services. In May of this year, the Adviser confirmed ongoing renovations for four steamers, with a goal to reintroduce at least two within the next five to six months. To support this revival, the government, in collaboration with the World Bank, is constructing new launch terminals and pontoons, including those in Laherhat, Barishal, and Monpura, Bhola.
The paddle steamer era in Bangladesh traces back to 1829 when Marine Board controller John Stone, under the British government, explored steam navigation possibilities in the region. The official commencement of the paddle steamer era occurred in 1884 on the Barishal-Khulna route following surveys and the establishment of companies like the Indian General Steam Navigation Co and River Steam Navigation (RSN) with offices in Barishal. The last operating paddle steamers, known as “Rocket Steamers,” ceased operations in October 2022 and have since been docked along the Buriganga and Shitalakshya riversides.