The Patna district administration has launched a stringent crackdown on unsafe boat operations, imposing a complete ban on unregistered vessels, overloaded boats, and nighttime operations on the Ganga river and other local waterways. This decisive action follows directives from District Magistrate Thiyagarajan S M, SSP Kartikeya K Sharma, and a specific prohibitory order issued by Danapur Sub-Divisional Magistrate Aniruddh Pandey, which remains in effect until the night of June 14.
Immediate Response to Tragic Incidents
The administrative response was triggered by two recent boat capsizes and drowning incidents in the Ganga river over the past four days, resulting in six deaths and several others reported missing, according to data shared by the Patna district administration. These tragedies prompted urgent measures to prevent further loss of life.
Joint Meeting and Enforcement Directives
To implement these safety measures across the district, the DM and SSP convened a joint meeting on Friday with police superintendents, sub-divisional officers, circle officers, and station house officers. The administration has directed officials to take strict legal action against boat operators and boatmen violating prescribed guidelines, emphasizing that safety non-compliance will not be tolerated. The DM, SSP, and other senior officials will also hold meetings with boat operators and boatmen at major ghats within two days to inform them about the rules and ensure mandatory compliance. At relatively smaller ghats, meetings will be conducted by circle officers and SHOs.
Mandatory Registration and Safety Inspections
Registration is now mandatory for all vessels, with the district transport officer organizing circle-wise camps under the Bihar Model Ferry Rules-2011. Unregistered boats will be seized and operators prosecuted following a safety and capacity inspection by the Motor Vehicle Inspector. Registered boats must strictly adhere to capacity limits, carry essential safety gear like life jackets, and visibly paint registration, load capacity, and operator details on the hull. Operations are banned during adverse weather conditions, a district administration official stated.
Closure of Dangerous Ghats and Control Rooms
Circle and police officers have been asked to shut dangerous ghats and restrict boat traffic to authorized locations. To enforce compliance, emergency control rooms with magistrates, police, and divers are being established at major ghats. Local officials will conduct regular safety checks, brief boat operators, and report to the District Disaster Branch.
