DHAKA: The government introduced ‘work and earn policy’ for Sadarghat Launch Terminal in the capital from the first day of the new fiscal year, doing way with the long-lasting leasing system, aiming to free labourers from lessees’ grips. 

Shipping Minister Shajahan Khan Thursday inaugurated the new regime in the launch-terminal operation, following up on a recent government decision canceling the leasing system for reducing harassment of the passengers.

“Now the country’s biggest launch terminal will be free from harassment of passengers and open for all workers,” he declared.

The minister also said passengers wouldn’t have to pay any extra toll for using terminal except for the government-fixed fee, Tk 4 only.

However, the pro-Awami League Ghat Sramik League protested the government initiative.

“The authorities did not include the regular labourers of the terminal in the newly adopted system. They distributed identity cards among the outside irregular labourers,” the Leaguers alleged.

Replying to a question about the allegation Shajahan Khan said there might be some problems in the new system. “We will meet labourers’ demands later in consultation with them.”

Sources said BIWTA has distributed identity cards among the pro-ruling-party 100 workers for loading and unloading goods. The authorities will provide them with sky-color shirt.

Earlier, the government decided to stop leasing system of Sadarghat Launch Terminal on June 30 for reducing harassment and boosting service for the passengers.

Shipping secretary Abdul Mannan Hawlader and BIWTA Chairman Abdul Malek Mia, among others, were present at the programme.

BDST: 1640Hrs. July 1, 2010