Kamal Ghorui
Patna: Patna DM Thiyagarajan S M on Tuesday directed sub-divisional and police officers to initiate strict legal action against boat operators violating safety standards in the district’s rivers. The directive mandates a complete ban on overloading and operation of unregistered vessels, stressing that any compromise on public safety will invite immediate prosecution. Under the new orders, all private and govt boats are prohibited from operating between sunset and sunrise.District officials, including the district transport officer (DTO) and circle officers, have been instructed to ensure every vessel carries mandatory safety equipment such as life jackets, lifebuoys, first-aid kits and rescue ropes. Boats must also prominently display the operator’s contact details, registration number, load capacity and identity of a designated trained diver. These measures follow recent inspections at Digha Patipul, Gaighat and Nasiriganj, where authorities found hazardous transport of cattle and vehicles along with passengers beyond permitted limits.To streamline compliance, the DTO will organise circle-wise camps to facilitate registrations under the Bihar Model Boat Rules-2011 and the Bengal Ferry Act, 1885. All boats must undergo inspection by a motor vehicle inspector to certify seaworthiness before being allowed to operate. In addition, local police and circle officers have been directed to hold meetings with boatmen to communicate the norms and conduct regular field inspections.The administration has also authorised complete suspension of boat services during adverse weather conditions. Public announcements regarding safety protocols will be made through Patna Smart City public address systems and by local authorities at river ghats. The additional district magistrate for disaster management will supervise implementation of these measures and ensure regular monitoring and reporting to the district disaster branch.
