On the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr, passengers at the Daulatdia Ferry Ghat remained unusually low, with virtually no passengers visible at the ghats on Friday afternoon.
After a visit to the ferry and launch terminals around 3:00 pm, it was revealed that the Bir Shreshtha Language Veteran Dr Golam Mawla Ro-Ro Ferry was seen anchored at Ghat No. 7 without any passengers onboard or waiting nearby. In contrast to the typical pre-Eid rush, the terminals were calm and largely empty.
According to Mohammad Salahuddin, assistant general manager of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC), Daulatdia terminal branch, most Eid travelers had already departed for their hometowns earlier, significantly reducing pressure at the terminal.
“Our main concern now is the return journey after Eid,” he said, noting that deteriorating weather conditions could pose risks to waterway travel. “However, we hope that people returning to work after the holidays will be able to travel safely.”
Meanwhile, Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Goalanda Sathi Das said that authorities have been instructed to remain on high alert to address any adverse situations. Measures have been taken to ensure adequate safety arrangements on vessels, including the availability of life jackets, buoys, and fire extinguishers.
Officials added that this year’s Eid journey through the Daulatdia–Paturia route has been largely smooth, with homebound passengers reaching their destinations without significant inconvenience.
