Rajbari: Ferry services on the 6.5-kilometer Joukura-Nazirganj water route between Rajbari and Pabna have been suspended for 13 days due to the strong current of the Padma River, causing significant inconvenience to passengers and traders. Rabiul Islam, assistant manager of Joukura Ferry Ghat, explained that the Camelia ferry was set for a trial run today. However, engine operator Mukta Master determined that the river current had intensified, making it unsafe for ferry operation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the two government-operated K-type ferries, Kopoti and Camelia, were previously responsible for this route. Unfortunately, with Kopoti undergoing repairs at a workshop for about one and a half months, Camelia remains the only operational ferry. The ferry services were halted on the night of September 6 after the sudden intensification of the Padma River's current.
An assistant manager from the Marine Department in Narayanganj stated that for ferry operations on the Joukura-Nazirganj route, the river current should ideally be between 4 and 5 nautical miles per hour. Currently, the river's current is around 7 nautical miles per hour. The engines of K-type ferries lack the power to operate against such a strong current, making it impossible to resume services until conditions improve.
The suspension has posed challenges for regular users of the route, particularly those with business interests. Qurban Ali, a frequent passenger and trader, shared that the disruption has hindered their regular travel to Pabna, leading to financial losses. The alternative of crossing the river by speedboat is also deemed risky due to the strong current.
Ali suggested that introducing modern and powerful roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) ferries, capable of operating against the strong current, along with the necessary infrastructure and safety measures, could alleviate the difficulties faced by people in the two districts.