Bhagalpur: In a major relief for farmers and daily commuters crossing the Ganga river, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has announced plans to install floating community jetties at four key ghats in the district to improve safety and ease of travel.
According to IWAI officials, Sultanaganj and Aguwani ghats in the western region, along with Kahalgaon and Teentanga ghats in the eastern region, have been identified for the project. Work on installing the floating jetties is expected to begin soon.
The proposed jetties will remain afloat on the river and will be secured to the riverbank using strong ropes, allowing them to adjust automatically to fluctuating water levels. Currently, the absence of proper flat surfaces at these ghats makes boarding boats and vessels risky, with several instances of passengers slipping and falling into the river.
Officials said that once the jetties are installed, boats and vessels will dock directly alongside them, significantly improving passenger safety and convenience during boarding and deboarding. A similar floating jetty is already operational at Babupur Mor Ganga ghat, where it has been used for cruise operations.
In addition to the jetties, passenger facilities will also be upgraded. Shelters will be constructed at the ghats to allow travellers to wait comfortably for boats and vessels. Drinking water facilities will be provided, offering relief during the summer season. Solar lighting will also be installed to ensure safe movement during nighttime.
The initiative is expected to particularly benefit farmers and daily commuters who regularly cross the Ganga for work and trade. Authorities believe the project will make river crossings safer, more organised, and more accessible for thousands of people in the region.
