Dhaka: The century-old paddle steamer PS Masud is making a comeback as part of the government's push to revive river-based tourism, Shipping and Labor and Employment Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hussain said on October 24.

Speaking during a trial voyage of the vessel on the Dhaka-Munshiganj route from Sadarghat, the adviser announced that the historic steamer - owned by the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) - will soon begin regular operations on the Dhaka-Barishal route starting November.

After major renovation and refurbishment, PS Masud now features upgraded safety systems and modern passenger amenities while retaining its traditional charm. "The steamer is now fully ready," Dr Sakhawat said, adding that its mechanical and navigational performance would be assessed during the test run before official service begins.

Describing PS Masud as "a moving monument of the nation's river heritage," the adviser said the initiative aims to reconnect people - especially the younger generation - with Bangladesh's deep-rooted river culture.

"We want the new generation to experience how the rivers once formed the arteries of communication and culture," he said. "Its return represents the revival of that bond-a reflection of our living history."

The government also plans to restore other vintage steamers like PS Masud to preserve the legacy of inland waterways and promote tourism.

According to BIWTC, the steamer will operate weekly, departing Dhaka for Barishal every Friday and returning the next day.

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