Rising water levels in the Padma River have submerged the approach road to the Paturia Launch Ghat, causing immense suffering for passengers using ferry services.
With the access road inundated, commuters are struggling to board and disembark from launches, while authorities fear that the continued rise in the water level may submerge the pontoon, forcing authorities to suspend launch operations.
Panna Lal, Paturia Launch Ghat supervisor, said water levels in the Padma has been rising gradually over the past three days.
However, the sudden surge early Wednesday morning flooded the ghat’s connecting road.
“As a result, passengers are facing difficulties in boarding and getting off launches,” Panna said.
He said Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) officials were informed and temporary movement arrangements have been made using sandbags.
However, if the water level continues to rise, launch services may have to be suspended at any time, Panna warned.