Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) has issued a highest-alert navigation warning for the Paturia-Daulatdia waterway following a rise in water levels and strong river currents.
Under a special emergency navigation notice, all vessels, ferries and launches operating on the route have been instructed to navigate with utmost caution. Vessels capable of travelling at speeds below 7.20 nautical miles per hour have been advised to avoid the waterway and use alternative routes.
Mohammad Ashraf Uddin, joint director of BIWTA’s Aricha office, said excess floodwater from Nepal is entering Bangladesh through India, resulting in rising river levels and stronger currents. The increased current could pose significant risks to slower vessels, he said.
The strong current has also made ferry operations increasingly difficult, particularly while vessels approach the terminals at both ends of the route.
To ensure passenger safety, copies of the emergency navigation notice have been sent to the river police, district administration, Upazila Nirbahi Officer, Inland Water Transport Workers Federation and other relevant authorities.