Passengers, ticket collectors clash at Paturia; launch services suspended

A clash broke out between passengers and ticket collectors at Paturia Launch Ghat in Manikganj on Wednesday, March 18. Following the incident, launch services on the Paturia-Daulatdia waterway route have been suspended since 7:00 pm, leaving homebound passengers stranded.

Passengers alleged that despite no launches being available at the ghat, some individuals were selling tickets and collecting money, causing problems for ordinary passengers.

Paturia Launch Ghat director Pannalal Nandi alleged that launch operations have been suspended due to security concerns after passengers physically assaulted ticket collectors.

However, the detailed reasons behind the incident remain unclear.

Paturia Launch Ghat manager Faruk Hossain said passenger pressure increased in the afternoon due to garment factory holidays. "We are struggling to manage the pressure; passengers are forcefully boarding launches."

A passenger heading to Magura said, "I was returning home after factory leave in the afternoon. I thought I'd travel alone, but arriving at the ghat, I saw huge crowds and no launches. I've faced a lot of hardship."