Nationwide Suspension of All Waterway Traffic Due to Dense Fog

The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) has announced the temporary suspension of all waterway traffic across the country owing to dense fog and severely reduced visibility. The directive came into effect on Sunday, 28 December, at 6:00 PM, and will remain in force until further notice.

The development was confirmed by Mr. Md. Solaiman, Officer of the BIWTA’s Maritime Safety and Traffic Management Department, in an exclusive statement to The Daily Star.

He stated,

“From 6:00 PM today, no vessel has been authorised to navigate the country’s waterways. Likewise, all river ports nationwide are closed to passenger ferries and other vessels. This measure is essential to ensure the safety of both passengers and vessels.”

The authority cited a recent surge in accidents on several inland waterways as the primary reason for the precautionary measure. Since midnight last Friday, multiple collisions involving passenger ferries and cargo vessels have been reported in Chandpur, Narayanganj, and other locations. These unfortunate incidents have so far resulted in at least six fatalities and twenty injuries.

A summary of recent accidents is provided below:

The BIWTA has emphasised that navigation will remain suspended until visibility improves, warning that operating vessels in dense fog could lead to further accidents.

Passengers are urged to remain cautious and to verify the latest advisories before planning any river travel. In addition, port authorities have deployed limited staff and emergency response teams to ensure safety during the closure.

While this temporary suspension may disrupt passenger transport and cargo movement, BIWTA has stated that the measure prioritises the protection of human life and property. Maritime safety experts have highlighted that dense fog is a common hazard in winter months but can pose serious risks if navigational protocols are not strictly enforced.

Authorities remain hopeful that normal waterway operations will resume shortly once visibility conditions improve. In the meantime, passengers are encouraged to remain patient and consider alternative travel arrangements.