Manikganj, Jan 24 (V7N) – Ferry operations on the Aricha-Kazirhat and Paturia-Daulatdia river routes resumed on Friday morning after a nine-hour suspension due to dense fog.

Nasir Chowdhury, Deputy General Manager of the Aricha Sector, stated that heavy fog blanketed the Padma and Jamuna river basins from midnight, drastically reducing visibility. To avoid accidents, ferry services were suspended at 1:30 am.

During the suspension, four ferries—Barkat, Kapoti, Khan Jahan Ali, and Chitra—became stranded mid-river. Additionally, six ferries at Paturia Ghat, four at Daulatdia Ghat, and three at Aricha Ghat were stuck with passengers and vehicles onboard.

The disruption caused a backlog of over 500 vehicles at the piers, including buses, private cars, ambulances, and goods trucks.

At 10:30 am, ferry operations resumed as visibility improved. Priority is being given to passenger buses, private vehicles, and ambulances for crossings, while goods trucks are being cleared in phases.

The temporary halt underscores the challenges posed by dense fog during the winter months, significantly affecting riverine transport in Bangladesh. Authorities continue to monitor the situation to ensure safe navigation.

END/MSS/AJ