Ferry service at Sidr-damaged route remains suspended for 20 years

The Kalaran-Sannyasi ferry terminal, damaged by Cyclone Sidr, has remained out of operation for nearly 20 years, causing daily hardships for more than 100,000 residents of three upazilas in Pirojpur and Bagerhat.

Residents of Zianagar in Pirojpur and Morelganj and Sharankhola in Bagerhat are particularly affected, as ferry services remain unavailable. During the monsoon, rough river conditions often halt boat crossings, forcing passengers to risk their lives by travelling in small boats and trawlers.

The ferry service on the Kalaran-Sannyasi route was inaugurated on August 4, 2006. However, about a year later, Cyclone Sidr swept away the pontoon on the Kalaran side, bringing ferry operations to a halt.

Despite the passage of nearly two decades, the service has not resumed.

Both sides of the ferry terminal are now in a dilapidated condition. During the rainy season, when the river becomes rough, regular boat crossings are suspended, leaving passengers with limited and risky alternatives.

Executive Engineer of the Pirojpur Roads and Highways Department Md Russell said a decision had been taken to resume ferry services on the route.

As part of the initiative, work is underway to repair and widen the connecting roads, he said.

Once operational, the ferry service is expected to ease travel difficulties for several thousand passengers from the three upazilas every day.

sks