Barpeta,Assam: The Barpeta district administration has imposed a daily cut-off time for ferry and boat operations across the district, directing all services to cease passenger movement after 4 PM in a move aimed at strengthening safety on inland waterways.
The directive comes in the aftermath of a boat collision at Bohori Ghat under the Chenga Revenue Circle, in which 15 people sustained minor injuries.
Issued by District Commissioner and District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Chairman Nabadeep Pathak, the order has taken effect immediately and will remain applicable until further notice. The administration cited concerns over passenger safety during late afternoon and evening hours, when reduced visibility, seasonal fog and other navigation-related challenges can increase the risk of accidents on rivers and water bodies.
Under the new guidelines, all government-operated and private ferry services, including boats engaged in passenger transport, must complete their final trips by 4 PM each day. Passenger movement beyond the designated time will not be permitted unless authorised under exceptional circumstances by the competent authority.
The administration has also directed ferry operators and boat owners to ensure strict compliance with licensing requirements and safety protocols. All vessels operating on designated routes must carry valid permits and be equipped with the necessary safety gear for passengers.
To ensure implementation of the order, Circle Officers, Inland Water Transport (IWT) officials and other field-level authorities have been instructed to conduct regular monitoring at ferry ghats within their respective jurisdictions.
The notification further mandates the suspension of ferry services during adverse weather conditions, including heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds or poor visibility. Services must also be halted whenever weather alerts are issued by authorised agencies.
Authorities warned that any violation of the order, or failure to enforce it, could attract legal action under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and other relevant provisions.
According to preliminary findings, the boats involved in the accident were allegedly operating without valid licences and lacked mandatory safety arrangements. Although no fatalities or major property damage were reported, the incident has prompted the administration to tighten oversight of ferry services and reinforce compliance with safety regulations across the district.
