Dhaka: Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury stated that the Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG) has become a symbol of trust among coastal communities. “Since its establishment, members of the Bangladesh Coast Guard have been playing a key role in ensuring the security of the country’s internal waterways by risking their lives and preventing all illegal activities, such as drug, arms and human trafficking, illegal smuggling, piracy, unlawful fishing, and others,” he said. The adviser made this remark while speaking as the chief guest at the 30th founding anniversary of Bangladesh Coast Guard and Coast Guard Day-2025 celebration program at the Coast Guard Headquarters, as mentioned in a ministry press release.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, in addition to ensuring the security of the sea and river routes through regular patrols, the Coast Guard also conducts rescue operations for vessels and sailors involved in accidents. The force’s role in various public awareness activities, including raising awareness among local people, fishermen, and boat owners in dealing with natural disasters in coastal areas, is highlighted as commendable. Notably, during cyclones, floods, and other natural disasters, Coast Guard members contribute to saving lives and conducting relief activities.
Senior Secretary of the Ministry Nasimul Ghani spoke as the special guest at the event, with Bangladesh Coast Guard Director General Rear Admiral Md Ziaul Hoque presiding. Jahangir noted that the interim government is committed to the overall development of the Coast Guard, which is currently in the process of acquiring high-speed boats with armored or bullet-proof facilities, ground control stations, and surveillance drones. Additionally, plans to purchase rescue drones and helicopters are underway.
Jahangir detailed that 179 modern and speedy vessels have been incorporated into the force, significantly enhancing its operational capabilities. Infrastructure, such as accommodation, barracks, and administrative buildings, has been developed, and the VSATNET System has been installed on Coast Guard ships to revolutionize communication in the deep sea. Furthermore, inshore patrol vessels, floating cranes, tug boats, and various types of high-speed boats have been added to the fleet under various development projects.
The government recently approved a project to build nine patrol vessels in domestic shipyards to replace the aging ships of the Coast Guard fleet. “If these modern ships are added to the Bangladesh Coast Guard fleet, the operational capabilities of this force will increase manifold compared to any time in the past,” Jahangir noted. He also highlighted the Coast Guard’s extraordinary role in maintaining law and order through various operations following the mass uprising of students and the public.
Jahangir emphasized that the Bangladesh Coast Guard has been making a sustainable contribution to national security and the economy as an efficient, modern, and powerful force. He urged every member of the Coast Guard to commit to discharging their duties with honesty, patriotism, discipline, dedication, and determination to build a developed and prosperous Bangladesh while ensuring the country’s sovereignty, sea and national security. He also congratulated the more than 40 Coast Guard members awarded medals for their performance and special contributions. Audio visuals showcasing various activities of the Coast Guard were displayed at the event.