Dense Fog Halts Ferry Services on Key Routes

Ferry operations on two of Bangladesh’s crucial inland waterways—Paturia-Daulatdia and Aricha-Kazirhat—were temporarily suspended from 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday, 24 December, due to dense fog, the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) reported. The precautionary measure has been taken to ensure the safety of passengers and cargo.

Officials from BIWTC explained that visibility on the rivers had begun deteriorating from early morning. By mid-morning, the fog had thickened to the extent that channel markers and navigation points were barely visible. “Operating ferries under such conditions carries a significant risk of collision or grounding,” a BIWTC spokesperson noted. “Safety remains our top priority, so all ferry services have been temporarily halted until conditions improve.”

Both small and large vessels are currently anchored mid-river, awaiting the fog to clear. The situation is being continuously monitored, and services will resume immediately once visibility is restored.

Abdus Salam, Director (Inland) of the Aricha office, emphasised: “No ferry will operate until we can guarantee safe navigation. Our primary concern is the secure transport of both passengers and goods. As soon as the fog lifts, all services will be reinstated without delay.”

The following table summarises the affected routes and ferry services:

BIWTC also highlighted that fog is a common hazard on rivers during the winter months, significantly reducing visibility and increasing navigational risks. Consequently, ferry services are regularly suspended during heavy fog to prevent accidents.

Passengers have been advised to adjust their travel plans accordingly and to maintain close contact with ferry authorities for updates. BIWTC assured that services would resume promptly once the fog dissipates and that measures are being taken to minimise disruption to passenger and cargo transport.

Safety precautions have been emphasised to prevent travellers from taking unnecessary risks. With vigilant monitoring and coordinated efforts, ferry operations on these vital waterways are expected to return to normal within a few hours.