Photo : BSS

BHOLA, July 25, 2025 (BSS) - The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) has suspended passenger launch and sea-truck services on 10 routes in the Bhola-Barishal-Lakshmipur district due to rough weather.

BIWTA Assistant Director Riad Hossain said the suspension will remain in effect until further notice.

He said launch services on 10 river routes, including Bhola-Lakshmipur, Charfashion-Monpura, Tojumoddin-Monpura, and Doulatkhan-Alexander, have been suspended for safety reasons.

In addition, the Bhola-Barishal river route has also been suspended as the coastal district of Bhola has been experiencing overcast conditions, moderate rainfall, and strong winds, Hossain said.

Locals said water levels reportedly reached waist height at the lower gangway and knee depth at the higher one during high tide in coastal areas.

They added that commuters and drivers were facing hours of delays due to flooded gangways and rising river water levels.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department predicted rain or thundershowers with temporary gusty winds across the country in the next 24 hours starting at 9 am.

The weather office said rough conditions have gripped the coastal areas, prompting authorities to issue local cautionary signal number 3 for Chattogram, Cox's Bazar, Mongla, and Payra ports.