The government has suspended passenger vessel service in all inland river ports due to Cyclone Yaas.
The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) made the announcement on Tuesday with immediate effect, and said that it would be in place until further notice.
BIWTA Deputy Director Mizanur Rahman said: “Cautionary signal No 2 is already in place. Vessels that are 65 feet long can ply in such a situation. But the suspension has been imposed to avoid any loss of lives.”
Also Read - Cyclone Yaas might inundate 14 districts
The cyclone is approaching at a pace of 21kmh, and is likely to turn into a super cyclone reaching a speed of 165-190kmh. The cyclone may make landfall in West Bengal and Odisha of India on Wednesday morning.
Under the influence of the inclement weather, the south-western coastal districts of Bangladesh are already witnessing gusty wind. Many low-lying areas in Khulna, Satkhira, Patuakhali and Noakhali have already been flooded.
On Monday, the government eased curbs on operating passenger launches, allowing the vessel owners to resume services after keeping them suspended for nearly seven weeks.
