10 Villages Risk Lives Crossing Kumar River, Hauling Boat by Rope

For years, residents of 10 villages in Saltha, Faridpur, have been suffering due to the lack of a bridge over the Kumar River. At the ferry points in the Borodia and Diyapara areas of Gatti Union, there is no boatman. People have to pull a rope attached to the boat to cross the river themselves. Women, children, students and sick people face the greatest difficulties. Women often have to wait at the ferry point for a man to help operate the boat.

The ferry is used by residents of Borodia Bazar, Meherdia, Narayandia, Chhoto Laxmandia and Boro Laxmandia on the east bank, and Diyapara, Rasulpur, Raghuarkandi, Joyjhap and Balia Gatti on the west bank. Several schools, colleges, madrasas and a hospital are located on both sides of the river. Students and teachers have to cross the river by boat every day. During the monsoon, strong currents and waves make the crossing more difficult. Students also sometimes miss classes while waiting to cross the river.

College student Tamanna Akter said, “Students are suffering every day because there is no bridge. Girls, in particular, cannot cross the river by pulling the rope. So, they have to wait at the ferry point for men. Many times, they miss classes because of this wait. If a bridge is not built here soon, there will be no solution to this suffering.”

Farmer Abdur Rahman, local resident Lutfor Rahman and businessman Nazrul Sheikh said, “For a hundred years, people from 10 villages have been crossing the river by pulling a rope attached to a boat. As there are educational institutions on both banks, students and teachers have to cross the river at risk. Farmers have to travel 10–15 kilometres around the area to take their produce to the market. A bridge would make travel and transportation of agricultural products easier, reducing time and costs. It would also improve trade and communication across the area.”

Locals said they have repeatedly demanded a bridge from public representatives, but no visible action has been taken. Saltha Upazila Engineer Abu Zafar Mia said, “Many local people have demanded a bridge near Borodia Bazar over the Kumar River in Gatti Union. Understanding the importance of the issue, I have sent a proposal for the construction of a bridge. I have also received a DO letter from the minister. The proposal has been sent to the appropriate authority. I hope we will be able to build the bridge here soon.”