A pontoon at the Paturia launch terminal in Shibalaya upazila of Manikganj has completely collapsed under the strong current of the Padma River, while another is now at risk of failing, according to officials.
Thousands of passengers are being forced to use the launch terminal daily at considerable risk, as no emergency preparedness was in place ahead of the monsoon disruption.
The Paturia launch terminal is a key river route for people from 21 districts in Bangladesh’s south-western region.
Locals complained that this problem recurs almost every year during the rainy season, yet the authorities fail to take preventive measures in advance. This year’s negligence has led to a severe disruption. Passengers and local residents have demanded urgent, permanent solutions to ensure public safety.
Panna Lal Nandi, manager of the terminal, said, “Due to the strong currents in the Padma, the soil beneath the pontoon’s pillars is eroding. One pontoon has already collapsed, and the condition of the remaining one is also very fragile. If no action is taken immediately, it may collapse at any time.”
Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) Aricha River Port Deputy Director Mohammad Selim Sheikh said, “As soon as we were informed, we took the necessary steps. A team is now heading to the site. To reduce passenger suffering on this crucial waterway, we’ve decided to temporarily shift launch operations to our reserve ferry terminal No. 2.”
He added, “Since the monsoon is still ongoing, it’s not possible to repair the damaged pontoons immediately. For now, they will be salvaged and stored. Once the season ends and conditions improve, the pontoons will be permanently repaired and brought back into use.”