Nalchhiti Launch Ghat Named After Osman Hadi

The launch terminal at Nalchhiti in Jhalakathi has been officially renamed Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi Launch Ghat in honor of the late activist. 

The unveiling of the name plaque took place at a formal event attended by government officials and local residents. Brigadier General (retd.) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hossain, Adviser to the Ministry of Shipping and the Ministry of Labour and Employment, led the ceremony yesterday.

While paying tribute, he described Shaheed Hadi as a courageous participant in the July mass uprising, a voice of the protesting youth, and a representative of the Inqilab Mancha platform.

He said the decision to name the historic launch ghat after Hadi—who hailed from Nalchhiti and gave his life for the nation—would encourage younger generations to uphold values of patriotism, bravery, and civic duty.

The adviser also noted that the interim government is prioritizing the improvement of river transport facilities to better connect remote and riverine communities with broader development initiatives. He added that such projects would help enhance the quality of life for people living in coastal areas.

The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) has already completed renovation and modernization work at the newly named launch ghat.

People from various segments of the community welcomed the renaming, calling it an important milestone in Nalchhiti’s history that would inspire youth to stand for justice, protest oppression, and understand citizens’ rights.

Earlier, a water ambulance titled “Shaheed Osman Hadi” was handed over to the Monpura Upazila administration in Bhola to strengthen healthcare services for coastal residents.

On the same day, Dr. Sakhawat Hossain also inaugurated a newly built launch ghat in Durgapasha Union of Bakerganj upazila, Barishal. He said the facility would make river travel safer, easier, and more affordable, while supporting local agriculture and commerce.

The event was attended by BIWTA Chairman Rear Admiral Arif Ahmed Mostafa, members of Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi’s family, officials from the Shipping Ministry and BIWTA, representatives of district and upazila administrations, and other local dignitaries.