Dhaka, Aug. 19 -- Bangladesh is set to launch its first-ever nationwide vessel census on Thursday to collect updated information on all motorised vessels operating in the country's waters and create a comprehensive database for the maritime transport sector.

The "Vessel Census 2026" will be conducted from August 20 to 29 under the "Vessel Database Development and Capacity Enhancement in Vessel Management" project being implemented by the Department of Shipping under the Ministry of Shipping.

The initiative aims to make the country's maritime transport sector safer, more organised, modern and data-driven.

During the 10-day census, information on the number, types, ownership and registration status of vessels, along with other relevant d...