Bhagalpur: In response to the collapse of the RCC slab of the Vikramshila Setu on May 4, the Bhagalpur district administration has fixed fares for cargo vessels, ferries, and boats transporting passengers and goods across the river Ganga. The services operate between Barari ghat (Bhagalpur), Babupur (Sabour) ghat, Kahalgaon ghat, Mahadevpur (Jahanvi Chowk) ghat, and Tintanga Karari (Gopalpur) ghat.
Additional Vessels and Ferries Deployed
The administration, in consultation with stakeholders, has decided to deploy 14 additional cargo vessels and eight ferries operated by private shipping agencies. These will supplement existing government ferries, boats, and registered private vessels to facilitate the movement of commuters and transportation of goods.
Background and Need
The cargo vessel service was introduced following demands from daily commuters, milkmen, banana and vegetable sellers, office-goers, and teachers who regularly travel between Bhagalpur and Naugachia for work and trade. The vessels will also transport small commercial vehicles, including tractors, vans, small trucks, and medical ambulances across the river.
The collapse of the RCC slab of the Vikramshila Setu has disrupted connectivity between Bhagalpur and the Seemanchal region of north Bihar, severing a crucial road link between south and north Bihar.
Fare Structure
Bhagalpur District Magistrate Nawal Kishor Choudhary announced the following fares:
- Loaded 18-wheeler: Rs 5,000; Unloaded: Rs 2,500
- Loaded 16-wheeler: Rs 4,800; Unloaded: Rs 2,400
- Loaded 14-wheeler: Rs 4,500; Unloaded: Rs 2,250
- Loaded 12-wheeler: Rs 4,400; Unloaded: Rs 2,200
- Loaded 10-wheeler: Rs 3,800; Unloaded: Rs 1,900
Passenger and Vehicle Fares
Passenger fares on private ferries and boats have been fixed at Rs 25 for children below 12 years and Rs 50 for persons above 12 years. Charges for transporting bicycles and motorcycles are Rs 20 and Rs 50, respectively.
The DM stated that transportation of medical ambulances on private cargo vessels and ferries has been made free as part of a humanitarian approach. Private operators have been directed to ensure priority passage for ambulances carrying patients.
