Bangladesh Water Transport Coordination Cell (BWTCC) has launched a digital platform, “Lighter Vessel Management Software - Jahaji”, to bring transparency and efficiency to lighter vessel operations in Chattogram.

The software was inaugurated this morning at the BWTCC office in Agrabad’s Kaderi Chamber by Mirza Saifur Rahman, chief engineer and ship surveyor of the Department of Shipping.

The initiative aims to address long-standing complaints of irregularities, delays, and lack of transparency in the serial allocation and deployment of lighter vessels, which had been managed manually for years.

Officials said automation was introduced under the Department of Shipping and BWTCC to modernise the sector in line with national transport policies.

Under the new system, serial allocation and vessel assignment will be automated using geo-fencing technology, ensuring a first-come, first-served process. The platform also offers real-time berthing lists, SOS services, digital staff profiles, weather alerts, simplified demurrage settlement, and digital piloting coupons.

BWTCC officials said the software would enable real-time monitoring of lighter vessels, helping prevent delays and misuse and improving overall operational efficiency.

The software, the first of its kind in Bangladesh’s lighter vessel sector, was developed with technical support from Jahaji Limited, which worked on the system for over three and a half years.

BWTCC believes the digital initiative will strengthen governance in inland water transport and contribute to achieving the country’s broader blue economy goals.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Captain Sheikh Md Jalal Uddin Gazi as a special guest, with Haji Safik Ahmed presiding. Representatives of cargo and local agent companies were also present.