Daulatdia-Paturia: Travellers suffer due to long tailback

The traffic at Paturia ferry terminal in Manikganj further increased yesterday as the movement of heavy vehicles remained shut on Banglabazar-Shimulia naval route.

At least 150 buses, 300 private vehicles, and 700 goods-laden trucks remained stranded in the tailback at Paturia, causing immense suffering to people.

Both goods-laden trucks of the Banglabazar-Shimulia route and an additional number of private vehicles moving during the puja holidays exacerbated the situation, said officials.

On top of that, terminal-4 remained closed at Paturia because of the ongoing dredging, they further said, adding that the traffic situation was no better at Daulatdia point.

Mohiuddin Rasel, assistant manager (commerce) of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation's Aricha regional office, said 19 small and large ferries were operating to control the heavy traffic.

"For greater interest, we are giving priority to vehicles that are carrying passengers and emergency goods. The regular goods-laden trucks will have to wait longer for passage," he said.

Tania Sultana, additional superintendent of police (Shibalaya circle), said the situation would improve soon as necessary actions were taken.

Road connections between the capital and 21 south and southwestern districts are being affected because of the tailback on both sides of the Padma.