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Ferry Operations Halted Due to Safety Concerns

Jorhat, Jun 1: Ferry services connecting Jorhat and Majuli have been temporarily halted following a significant increase in the water levels of the Brahmaputra River and its tributaries.

The Inland Water Transport (IWT) Department announced the suspension of operations between Neematighat and Kamalabari on Sunday, citing safety as the primary concern.

According to an official from the IWT Department, "The water level of the Brahmaputra started to rise on Saturday night, leading to the submersion of several ferry ghats. The river is also carrying large logs, which poses a serious navigation hazard. Therefore, we have decided to suspend ferry services."

This sudden halt has caused considerable inconvenience for the residents of Majuli.

One passenger remarked, "This is not an isolated incident for us. It’s a recurring issue. Until the Jorhat–Majuli bridge is finished, we will continue to face these challenges. If there is corruption in the bridge construction, this situation will persist."

Many others voiced their frustration regarding the delays in the bridge project, stating that repeated promises have not led to any tangible results. “The government keeps assuring us that the bridge will be completed soon, but nothing has materialized. Until we have the bridge, we will keep suffering,” another commuter added.

In the meantime, Jorhat is experiencing a flood-like scenario, with at least 20 villages affected as of Sunday. The Teok area, particularly the riverbank communities in the Jajimukh region, has been hit hard.

Residents are also struggling to safeguard their livestock, which adds to their distress. “Our animals are stranded. We urge the Teok MLA to arrange rescue ferry services for them,” a local resident stated.

In Baralimora, a bamboo bridge used by villagers for daily travel was swept away by strong currents, isolating at least eight villages.

“The first flood of the year destroyed our bamboo bridge. Although the Chief Minister mentioned it in a cabinet meeting, no action has been taken yet,” another resident lamented.

Local frustration is growing, with many claiming that no visible progress has been made on the bridge project. “Not even a foundation stone has been laid. I urge the Chief Minister and the Teok MLA to take immediate action,” a resident added.

Residents living along the riverbanks are now calling on the government and district administration to implement urgent and effective measures to tackle the ongoing crisis.