More than 70 unfit speedboats regularly operate across the Meghna River in Noakhali’s island upazila, Hatiya. These boats transport thousands of passengers every day without valid documents, proper approval, or any concern for passenger safety. Locals claim that the administration is aware of the situation, yet no effective measures have been taken.
Passenger Moktadir Rahim Jony recently shared his terrifying experience on the Meghna. According to him, “The speedboat I boarded with my sister was carrying twice its capacity. Water entered the boat mid-river, and the engine stalled. The driver managed to get us to shore quickly, but many lost their bags and belongings.” The boat involved in the incident belonged to Pitu, a locally influential fish trader. Residents allege that no one dares speak out against him due to his close ties with former BNP leader Hasan Imam.
The two key docks—Nalchira and Chairman Ghat—are dominated by a syndicate formed by boat owners, who control which boats operate. These syndicates allegedly collect extra money from each trip. At Nalchira Ghat, line managers Jahed, Ashraf, Ayat, Yusuf, and Akbar, and at Chairman Ghat, Sharif, Rahmat, and Farid reportedly allow unapproved speedboats to load passengers in exchange for bribes.
Investigations reveal that out of more than 70 speedboats operating at both ghats, only 18 to 20 have valid fitness certificates. Though many boats use small engines, they have large bodies, making mid-river engine failure a frequent occurrence. In April, one such boat broke down before dusk in mid-river. Passenger Nur Uddin said, “Even after repeated calls, the owner didn’t respond. Eventually, another boat from the ghat came to rescue us.”
Zaker Hossain Kalu, president of the newly formed boat owners’ committee, admitted, “We have yet to bring order to the line. The line managers continue to operate as they wish.”
In response, Hatiya UNO Md. Ala Uddin said, “A major accident was narrowly avoided recently involving 28 passengers. A special team comprising river police and coast guard is being formed. Regulations will be enforced, including which boats can operate and how many passengers they can carry.”
Locals alleged although mobile courts have been conducted multiple times, the route reverts to its previous state within days. As a result, ordinary people are forced to travel every day under life-threatening conditions. Experts warn that unless there is strict administrative oversight and regular enforcement, the fear of death on this Meghna route will not go away.
