Launches remains anchored at the Sadarghat Launch Terminal on Saturday following Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority's (BIWTA) suspension of riverine transport services. Inset- A man waits at the Dhaka river port with the hope of returning home a
The authorities have suspended all sorts of activities at three maritime ports and inland water transportation as cyclonic storm Bulbul over the Bay of Bengal is nearing the coasts.Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) announced the suspension of riverine transport services until further notice.
Usually busy, Sadarghat the main port of the capital looks different than any other day. Generally, the place is packed with passengers and vendors, however, due to the suspension the place now remains mum. Although all vacations for the port officials were canceled, the officials were asked to tread with caution. In this regard, Sadarghar port officers said no vessels are likely to leave Dhaka until further notice.
We are waiting for when the cyclone 'Bulbul' will hit, as there is no other work for us, said one officer. "Currently every weather bulletins are being checked and we working accordingly," he added.Alamgir Kabir, Joint Director (Traffic) of Dhaka Port, said there was a cautionary signal no. 3 in Dhaka and signals no 4 at Barisal river port.
Today (Saturday), the number rose to 4 in Dhaka, while a great danger signal was issued for the seaport areas. Speaking about their preparations, he said, "We have taken preparations to tackle the situation." Our next initiatives will be taken once the cyclone leaves the country.
In a special weather bulletin on Saturday, the Met office issued great danger signal number 10 for maritime ports of Mongla and Payra, and great danger signal number nine for Chittagong port.
Heavy rains are likely to hit Dhaka, Chittagong, Barisal and Khulna divisions over the next 30 hours, a Met office bulletin read.In the meantime, the rainfall level of Dhaka has also increased.
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