Photo : BSS

KHULNA, Oct 19, 2025 (BSS) - The Forest Department has fixed five water 
routes for Hindu pilgrims and visitors heading to Dublar Char in the 
Sundarbans to participate in the traditional Rash Purnima Puja and Holy Bath, 
scheduled to be held from November 3 to 5.

To ensure safety and order during the three-day festival, joint patrol teams 
comprising members of the Forest Department, police, Border Guard Bangladesh 
(BGB), and Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG) will be deployed along the designated 
waterways, said a PID handout here today.

Devotees usually reach Dublar Char by launch, trawler, speed boat or country 
boat through various river routes.
 
The five approved routes are-- Burigoalini-Kobadak-Batulanodi-Bolnodi-
Patkoshta Canal-Hongsraj River-Dublar Char, Koyra-Kashiyabad-Khasitana-
Bajbaja-Aruya Shibsha-Morjat-Dublar Char, Naliana Station-Shibsha-Morjat-
Dublar Char, Dhangmari or Chandpai Station-Tinkona Island-Pashur River-Dublar 
Char, and Bogi-Baleshwar-Supoti-Kochikhali-Shelar Char-Outer Sundarbans-
Dublar Char.

Entry permission will be issued for the three festival days. Fees for vessel 
entry stay and passengers will be collected at the entry points before 
permits are granted.

Applicants must submit copies of their national ID cards, and each permit 
will specify the chosen route.Pilgrims have been asked to begin their journey 
during low tide on November 3 and to travel only during daytime hours.
 
All vessels must report to the control room at Alorkol and carry sufficient 
life jackets. Stopping outside designated checkpoints will not be allowed.

Carrying or using firearms, explosives, deer traps, axes, or saws is strictly 
prohibited, and offenders will face legal action.
 
The use of single-use plastic items, including bottles, plates, cups and 
spoons has also been banned. Loudspeakers, fireworks and any form of noise 
pollution are similarly restricted.

The Forest Department has urged all pilgrims and visitors to follow the 
safety and environmental rules to ensure a peaceful and eco-friendly 
celebration of Rash Purnima Puja (The Holy Bath).