Bhagalpur/Patna:Authorities in Bhagalpur have intensified safety arrangements at the Sultanganj-Aguwani Ganga ghat amid a rise in passenger movement caused by disruption of traffic on the Vikramshila Setu.
Large numbers of commuters are using boat services to cross the river daily, prompting the administration to deploy disaster response teams, medical personnel and additional safety equipment at the ghat.
Passenger rush increases at ghat
Heavy crowds have been reported during morning and evening hours at Jahaj Ghat, also known as Namami Gange Ghat.
Officials said employees of government and private institutions are among those relying on the ferry service to commute across the Ganga for work, leading to increased pressure on operations.
Life jackets and rescue equipment deployed
Following instructions from district magistrate Nawal Kishore Choudhary, life jackets and life buoys have been made mandatory on boats operating from the ghat.
Officials said the equipment is intended to improve passenger safety and assist rescue efforts in case of emergencies.
Boat operations are being monitored in the presence of designated magistrates, while passenger counts are also being maintained.
SDRF and medical teams stationed at site
The administration has stationed State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel at the ghat to monitor ferry movement and respond to emergencies.
An ambulance and medical team have also been deployed at the site, officials said.
At present, three boats are operating on the route, with passengers boarding and disembarking through jetty facilities arranged by the administration.
Boat fares fixed by administration
Authorities have fixed fares for passengers and vehicles using the ferry service.
According to officials, the fare has been set at Rs 35 for adults, Rs 15 for children and Rs 40 for transporting motorcycles.
Boat services are operating daily between 5am and 5pm.
The administration said passenger safety remains its priority and arrangements would continue to be monitored.
