Launch services between Paturia and Daulatdia have been suspended once again after the temporary jetty collapsed due to strong currents in the Padma River, cutting off waterway communication for 21 southwestern districts.
The disruption follows the earlier collapse of the permanent jetty at Paturia in Shibaloy Upazila, Manikganj. Authorities had shifted operations to the No. 2 ferry terminal nearby as a temporary solution. However, worsening river conditions have made this location unsafe as well.
Launch services were officially suspended from 6:30 PM on Friday (August 8), after soil erosion beneath the pontoon caused further instability. Panna Lal Nandi, manager of the Paturia launch terminal, confirmed the closure at 7 PM the same evening.
He explained that, earlier in the week, launches were relocated to the No. 2 ferry ghat on an emergency basis following the collapse of a jetty at the main terminal. Though passengers had continued to board from the temporary location, the risk remained high. Eventually, one of the ramps broke, while erosion under another increased the likelihood of a complete collapse.
To avoid potential accidents, authorities have decided to suspend launch operations along this critical water route until further notice.
Paturia Launch Ghat serves as a vital transit point for millions, connecting 21 districts in the country’s southwestern region. The suspension is expected to have significant impacts on travel and transport in the affected areas.