The Patna district administration has taken a decisive step to ensure public safety during the upcoming festive season by prohibiting the operation of private boats in the Ganga river. This ban will be implemented in two distinct phases to cover the peak periods of Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Two-Phase Ban for Maximum Safety Coverage
According to the official order issued on Friday, the prohibition is strategically timed. On Christmas Day, there will be a complete ban on all private boats. For the New Year period, the restrictions will commence at 6:00 AM on December 31 and will remain in effect until the afternoon of January 1.
An official from the collectorate explained the rationale behind the timing. "This ban aims to provide maximum coverage during the hours when riverfront activity is traditionally at its highest," the official stated. During major holidays, thousands of residents and visitors flock to the banks of the Ganga for picnics and celebrations, often venturing into the diara (sandy riverine) areas.
Addressing Risks of Overloading and Illegal Operations
The decision stems from serious concerns highlighted by past experiences and official reports. The administration noted that private boat operators frequently overload their vessels during these busy times, posing a significant risk to the lives of passengers.
The order, issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (Patna Sadar), is specifically designed to mitigate the dangers associated with the massive crowds expected at the city's ghats. The SDM further pointed out a troubling trend where some operators exploit the guise of publicity events or promotional activities to conduct illegal trips, thereby creating additional hazards for the general public.
Strict Monitoring and Legal Consequences
To enforce this directive effectively, the district administration has mobilized local law enforcement. Local police and river patrol teams have been instructed to maintain strict vigilance at all major ghats along the river in Patna.
The authorities have issued a clear warning: any individual or boat operator found violating this prohibition will face stringent legal action. The provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) will be invoked against offenders, underscoring the administration's commitment to preventing accidents and ensuring a safe festive environment for all.
This preventive measure underscores the administration's priority of citizen safety over recreational convenience during times of exceptionally high public congregation by the river.
