Barpeta Bans Ferries After 4 PM Following Boat Crash

Guwahati: Barpeta officials clamped down on river travel today. The district administration banned all private and government ferry services after 4 PM. This follows a collision at Bohori Ghat that left 15 people injured. No deaths occurred in the crash. The boats involved were operating without valid licences or safety gear.

District Commissioner and DDMA Chairman Nabadeep Pathak issued the order under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. The rule took effect immediately. It stays in place until further notice. Boat owners must complete their final trips before the deadline. They cannot sail after 4 PM without explicit permission from local authorities.

Officials cited low visibility and winter fog as primary risks for night travel. District Commissioner Nabadeep Pathak, along with Zilla Parishad CEO Ditimoni Pegu and Additional District Commissioner Namrata Das, visited the site to assess the situation. The administration also stated, "Any negligence in implementing the prescribed safety measures would invite action under the Disaster Management Act and other applicable laws."

Operators must now prove their vessels hold valid licences and carry enough safety equipment. Circle Officers and Inland Water Transport officials will police the ghats. They have clear orders to enforce compliance across all jurisdictions. Additionally, all ferry traffic must stop immediately during thunderstorms, heavy rain, strong winds, or when weather warnings are issued.