Aricha, Nov 03 (V7N) — Ferry services on the Aricha-Kazirhat waterway have been suspended for the past two days due to severe navigability challenges, impacting passengers and drivers from northern districts, including Pabna. Hundreds of vehicles are reportedly stranded at both ends of the ferry terminals as they await passage across the river.

The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) has advised vehicles normally using this route to seek alternative options. BIWTC officials confirmed that the Aricha approach channel lacks sufficient water depth to safely facilitate ferry operations, resulting in ferries frequently becoming stuck in shallow waters. To prevent accidents, BIWTC suspended all ferry services on this route as of Friday night (November 1).

The corporation stated that the ghat remains open, and dredging efforts are actively underway to restore navigability. However, until adequate depth is achieved, ferry operations will remain halted. BIWTC has not yet provided an estimated timeline for resuming regular services.

END/SR/AJ