Kurigram, Nov 19 (V7N)- Ferry operations on the Chilmari-Raumari waterway in Kurigram are set to resume on Wednesday morning (November 20) after a 12-day suspension caused by a navigability crisis in the Brahmaputra River.

According to Prafulla Chauhan , Commercial Manager of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) at Chilmari, the ferry service will restart as dredging and marking work on the route has been completed.

 "We hope that the ferry will operate from Wednesday morning," Chauhan stated, emphasizing the readiness of the route for safe passage of ferries and cargo vehicles.

The crisis began on November 8, when ferries struggled to navigate due to reduced water levels and sedimentation. The lower part of a ferry became stuck in the Roumari Ghat area, forcing a temporary halt in services.

Engineer Kamruzzaman , responsible for dredging operations, reported significant progress:
"Dredging and marking work is almost complete."

Since September 20 last year, two ferries, Kunjalta and Begum Sufia Kamal, have been providing essential transport services, carrying cargo trucks and passengers across the waterway. However, navigational difficulties intensified earlier this month, reducing ferry traffic.

The suspension disrupted local trade and transport, particularly affecting cargo movement. Ashraful Islam , a driver from Sonahat land port in Bhurungamari, shared his relief: "I brought a cargo truck after hearing that the ferry would be running. Hopefully, there will be no more closures."

With the restoration of ferry services, cargo vehicles are already arriving, signaling a return to normalcy for local businesses dependent on this vital route.

The resumption of ferry services underscores the importance of regular dredging and maintenance to ensure uninterrupted transport along the Brahmaputra River. BIWTC officials are optimistic about maintaining smooth operations in the coming days.