Barishal River Port: Damaged pontoon puts passengers at risk
Several potholes that have developed on the pontoon at Barishal river port is putting the thousands of passengers rushing across it every day at risk of accidents.
During a recent visit to the spot, this correspondent found the surface of the pontoon has been damaged at several spots, leading to creation of potholes up to one feet long and five feet deep.
The authorities allegedly have turned a blind eye to it, despite complaints.
Amid such circumstances, port insiders and citizens have demanded immediate action from authorities concerned.
Zakir Hossain, supervisor of the Sundarban Navigation Company, said authorities have not repaired the pits in the last three months.
"We have complained to the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) several times, but they have not taken any action," Zakir said.
Ganesh Dutta, an entrepreneur who frequently travels on the Dhaka-Barishal route, said, "I had reported to the authorities immediately after first coming across the holes a month ago, but I'm yet to see any improvement."
"Leaving unrepaired potholes on the pontoon may lead to accidents any time, even fatal ones," said Shah Sajeda, president of Sacheton Nagorik Committee.
"We demand immediate repairing of the pontoon and making the port more passenger-friendly."
Rafiqul Alam, Barishal district unit secretary of Bangladesh Paribesh Andolon (Bapa), added that obstacles like the potholes are disproportionately dangerous for the differently abled, sick, elderly, and children.
Mostafijur Rahman, Joint Director of BIWTA and Port Officer of Barishal River Port, told the Daily Star he only joined the office a few days ago.
However, the matter is under his notice and he is committed to repairing it soon, he told this newspaper.
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