Bhagalpur: Repair work on Vikramshila Setu, a key road link between Bhagalpur and Naugachia, is set to begin soon. To maintain passenger movement during the repair period, the district administration is preparing boat and cruise services on the Ganga for around three months.
Bhagalpur District Magistrate Alankrita Pandey has directed officials to complete preparations on priority. The administration has identified four ghats from where the alternative water transport service will operate.
The selected locations are Barari Sidi Ghat, Barari Ferry Ghat, Rajandipur Ghat in Sabour and Jahanvi Chowk Ghat in Naugachia.
Ghats To Get Passenger Facilities
The approach roads to the selected ghats are being widened and prepared for passenger movement. The administration has also directed officials to remove encroachments, clean the areas and ensure adequate lighting.
Lane-wise barricading will be installed to regulate crowds. Temporary police stations, administrative control rooms and medical camps will also be arranged at the ghats.
Waiting areas will be developed for passengers, while JEEViKA Didi kitchens will provide food and basic facilities.
The administration also plans to install CCTV cameras at the locations and restrict unauthorised shops around the ghats.
Life Jackets Mandatory For Every Passenger
Safety measures have been given priority for the proposed river service. Every passenger will be required to wear a life jacket, while boats will not be allowed to carry more passengers than their permitted capacity.
Safe ramps will be constructed for boarding and disembarking. SDRF motorboats will continuously patrol the route to respond to emergencies.
The administration has also planned a transparent coupon and ticketing system to regulate fares and keep track of the number of passengers using the service.
Service From 6 AM To 6 PM
The alternative water transport service will operate from 6 am to 6 pm, with the last boat scheduled to depart at 5 pm.
No boat or cruise service will operate after darkness, as the administration has ruled out night operations for safety reasons.
The arrangement is intended to ensure smooth passenger movement between Bhagalpur and Naugachia while Vikramshila Setu undergoes repairs. The district administration is coordinating preparations at the identified ghats so that the alternative route is ready before the repair work begins.
