According to the Shipping and Communication Reporters Forum (SCRF), an estimated 22.5 lakh individuals are forecasted to depart from the greater Dhaka area via waterways during the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr holiday. This number represents approximately 15 percent of the total holidaymakers expected to leave Dhaka and its surrounding regions, including Gazipur and Narayanganj.

The SCRF disclosed these findings on Tuesday through a press release summarizing their pre-Eid observation report. It was noted that a significant portion of these travelers would be heading towards the greater Barishal region, while others would be traveling to destinations such as Chandpur, Madaripur, Shariatpur, Munshiganj, and Hatia in Noakhali.

This year's statistics indicate a decrease compared to two years ago when 25 percent of travelers opted for waterway routes. This change is partly attributed to the inauguration of the Padma Bridge in 2022, resulting in a 40 percent decline in waterway passengers to coastal districts, except for Chandpur and Hatia.

The SCRF report anticipates the travel rush to commence on April 4, with all waterway passengers expected to depart between April 4 and April 10, the day before Eid. Sadarghat terminal is projected to witness approximately 3.21 lakh people passing through daily.

However, concerns have been raised regarding the navigability of waterways and the shortage of vessels. Currently, only 31 out of the original 41 waterways from Dhaka are operational due to these challenges. Nevertheless, the number of launches is expected to increase to about 175 before Eid, with 87 of these departing from Sadarghat.

The report underscores the strain on launches, many of which are anticipated to operate beyond their capacity, heightening the risk of accidents and inconvenience for the public. With numerous launches having a capacity of less than 1,000 people, the surge in passengers, particularly in the three days leading up to Eid, poses significant safety concerns.

In response, the SCRF has urged immediate action from relevant authorities, including bolstered surveillance and security measures at waterways and terminals, to address the risks associated with overcrowding and ensure a safer travel experience for Eid holidaymakers.