Ahead of Eid, there is no sign of easing passenger pressure at Dhaka’s Sadarghat terminal, even as weather conditions deteriorate.
On Friday, the terminal witnessed overwhelming crowds throughout the day. Long queues formed from early morning as passengers rushed to board launches heading toward the country’s southern regions, with the crowd swelling further as the day progressed.
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has issued a warning for inland river ports across the country. In a forecast valid until 6pm. Friday, it said temporary gusty or stormy winds accompanied by rain or thunderstorms, with speeds of 60 to 80 kilometres per hour, may sweep across the Dhaka, Faridpur, Tangail, Mymensingh and Sylhet regions from the west or northwest. River ports in these areas have been advised to hoist cautionary signal No. 2.
In addition, the department warned that rain or thunderstorms with gusty or stormy winds at speeds of 45 to 60 kilometres per hour may affect the Rajshahi, Pabna, Bogura and Cumilla regions. River ports in these areas have been instructed to display cautionary signal No. 1.
The Meteorological Department said the extended part of a low-pressure system is located over West Bengal and adjoining areas, while the seasonal normal low pressure remains active over the southern Bay of Bengal. As a result, gusty winds with rain or thunderstorms are likely across parts of the country over the next 24 hours, with a chance of hail in some areas.
Although temperatures may dip slightly, nighttime temperatures are expected to remain largely unchanged.
In light of the conditions, meteorologists have urged passengers to exercise caution when travelling by waterways.
Assistant meteorologist Shahnaz Sultana said all launch operators should monitor weather alerts before operating launches and steamers. “Travel by waterways today is risky,” she said, adding that a 24-hour cautionary signal No. 2 has already been issued. Passengers have been advised to proceed with caution in view of the warnings.