Two ferries assigned for Kalna ghat on the Madhumati river here have been running amid risk of submerging for long as lower parts of those are experiencing many holes.
It was learnt that those were kept on operational by repeatedly pumping out the water enters through the holes.
Sources said there are two ferries at the ghat to carry vehicles to western side Lohagara of Narail district from Kashiani of Gopalganj. The route is very important for south-western districts of the country while it saves a remarkable hours to maintain communication with the capital from those places.
The ghat’s lessee Manjurul Islam said the ferries have been carrying the vehicles amid a great risk as there are many holes in the lower part of them. “Besides, the condition of the engines is not good and that is why they consume excess diesel,” he added.
When asked, Gopalganj Roads and Highways Department Executive Engineer Somiran Rai acknowledged the sorry state of the ferries, telling that new big ferries are needed urgently to ensure smooth passage of the busy route.
