State Minister for Planning Zonayed Abdur Rahim Saki on Tuesday directed officials to take strict departmental action against anyone found manipulating or distorting information and data during the country’s first-ever census of watercraft.

He made the remarks while inaugurating a training programme for census coordinators at the divisional, district and upazila levels for the Watercraft Census 2026.

Saki said reliable data and statistics are essential for formulating sound policies and development plans, stressing that there is no alternative to accurate statistics for ensuring socio-economic development and effective planning.

“If any irregularity, discrepancy or inconsistency is found in the collection of accurate and reliable data, strict legal action will be taken immediately,” he said.

The state minister called for professionalism, transparency and neutrality throughout the data collection process.

He said the government is attaching special importance to waterways as water transport is relatively cost-effective, particularly for carrying goods.

“Effective use and development of waterways can help expand trade and commerce and further accelerate economic activities in the country,” Saki said.

He welcomed the initiative of the Ministry of Shipping and expressed confidence in the professionalism and capacity of the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) to successfully conduct the census.

Shipping State Minister Md Rajib Ahsan said the Watercraft Census 2026 will be conducted nationwide from Aug 20 to 29 to help build a safe, organised and efficient water transport system.

He said the census is being organised by the Ministry of Shipping with assistance from the BBS.

The census is expected to provide comprehensive information on watercraft operating across the country, helping authorities formulate policies and plans for the development and effective management of the water transport sector.