Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma and State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury welcomed the passengers aboard the world’s longest river cruise MV Ganga Vilas on its arrival at Mongla port in Bangladesh on Saturday (4 Feb.)

The cruise was flagged off by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Varanasi, India on Jan 13, 2023. It demonstrates the endeavour to boost river cruise tourism between India and Bangladesh.

In its journey to Bangladesh, the cruise also provides an unique opportunity to study the natural diversity and rich culture of Bangladesh.

In his welcome remarks, High Commissioner Pranay Verma said the Ganga Vikas river cruise is a historic development that demonstrates the power of rivers to connect India and Bangladesh and their peoples.

He hoped that the cruise will unlock the new potential for heritage and ecotourism in both India and Bangladesh, including the Sundarbans.