Authorities have nearly finalised preparations on Paturia–Daulatdia naval route, one of the busiest gateways for people heading to the south-western districts, ahead of upcoming Eid-ul-Adha.
While measures including ferry repairs, painting, pontoon renovations, and the deployment of additional vessels are underway, passengers and drivers remain apprehensive of potential suffering due to erosion of Padma river and infrastructural weaknesses at the terminal areas.
During a recent visit to the terminals, workers from Narayanganj were observed painting several ferries.
Marine workers Rafiq, Shah Alam, and Daud Hawlader noted that they have been engaged in painting the ferries “Baigar”, “Khan Jahan Ali”, and “Karabi” for the past three days.
Engine mechanic Jibon Mia stated that engine and painting work for several ferries have already been completed, while the pontoon of Paturia Ferry Terminal No-5, which was damaged during a storm, is currently being renovated.
Mohammad Abdus Salam, deputy general manager of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) Aricha office, confirmed that a total of 22 ferries have been prepared for Paturia–Daulatdia and Aricha–Kazirhat routes to ensure a smooth Eid journey. Out of these, 17 ferries will operate specifically on Paturia–Daulatdia route. He added that repairs and painting for several Ro-Ro ferries are in their final stages.
However, the official acknowledged that river erosion remains a threat. Last monsoon, several terminals, including Terminal No-5, were lost to Padma. Fresh erosion has now started near Terminal No-4 and 5, though the DGM claimed that preparations are in place to tackle the situation.
Road conditions near the pontoons are also a major concern for drivers, who fear accidents and traffic congestion due to the steep slopes. Sourav Mia, a driver of a Kusthia-bound bus, remarked that maintaining control of a vehicle on such steep roads is difficult. Truck driver Abdur Rahman added that risks remain even when brakes are functioning correctly.
Regarding launch services, part of the Paturia launch terminal has been lost to river erosion, leading authorities to prepare an atypical temporary terminal for passenger crossing.
Launch Supervisor Md Faruq Hossain stated that a total of 33 launches will operate on Paturia–Daulatdia and Aricha–Kazirhat routes for Eid period.
Addressing the infrastructure issues, Md Robiul Alam, executive engineer of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) Aricha office, said that geo-bags have been placed in the affected terminal areas.
A requisition for Tk20 crore has been sent to the Ministry to fund terminal renovations and river erosion prevention measures.
