Launch Fare Formula — How BIWTA Calculates Fares
Published on June 12, 20252 min readfare-info
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Launch fares in Bangladesh are regulated by BIWTA using a fixed formula. Here's how it works.
The Base Rate
For the first 100 km, the rate is 1.20 BDT per km for deck class. Beyond 100 km, the rate drops to 0.80 BDT per km.
Example Calculation
A 180 km route from Dhaka to Barisal:
- First 100 km: 100 × 1.20 = 120 BDT
- Next 80 km: 80 × 0.80 = 64 BDT
- Total deck fare: 184 BDT (rounded to ~180–200 BDT)
Fare by Class
Each class is a multiplier of the deck fare:
| Class | Multiplier |
|---|---|
| Deck | 1.0× (base) |
| Economy Chair | 1.5× |
| Single Cabin Non-AC | 2.5× |
| Single Cabin AC | 3.5× |
| Double Cabin AC | 5.0× |
Minimum Fare
The minimum fare for any launch trip is 50 BDT, even for very short distances.
Entry Fees
Major river ports charge a terminal entry fee of 20 BDT per passenger, plus a 5 BDT passenger welfare fund fee.
Why Fares Vary
While BIWTA sets the formula, actual fares can differ due to:
- Operator-specific pricing for cabin classes
- Seasonal demand (fares rise during Eid)
- Vessel quality and amenities
Always check the fare on Smart Route BD before booking.
