“Due to reduced visibility in the river basin, vessels have been instructed to proceed with caution.”

The national meteorological authorities have issued a precautionary forecast warning that visibility across the country’s river basins may deteriorate significantly owing to dense fog. According to the advisory, the reduced visibility is expected to prevail from the early hours of Friday, commencing at 5:00 a.m., and may persist until approximately 1:00 p.m.

Meteorologists have indicated that moderate to dense fog is likely to form over extensive stretches of inland river systems during this period. As a result, visibility may fall to around 300 metres or even less in certain locations. Such conditions are typical during the cooler months, when calm winds, high humidity, and falling night-time temperatures combine to create thick fog over low-lying areas and water bodies.

The advisory has particular relevance for river transport, which plays a vital role in the movement of passengers and goods across the country. Launches, ferries, cargo vessels, and smaller boats operating along the river network have been advised to proceed with heightened caution while navigating through fog-affected zones. Reduced visibility can make it difficult to judge distances, identify oncoming vessels, or detect riverbanks and markers, thereby increasing the risk of collisions or grounding.

Despite the potentially hazardous conditions, the meteorological department has clarified that no formal warning signals are required to be hoisted at river ports during this period. Instead, vessel operators and crews are expected to rely on prudent seamanship, reduced speeds, vigilant lookouts, and, where available, navigational aids to ensure safe passage.

Experts have also advised passengers to remain patient in the event of delays, as vessel operators may choose to slow down or temporarily suspend movement during periods of particularly dense fog. Such measures, while inconvenient, are considered essential to prevent accidents and ensure overall safety on the waterways.

Fog-related disruptions are not uncommon at this time of year, and authorities routinely issue such advisories to minimise risk. River transport officials are expected to remain alert and monitor conditions closely throughout the forecast period, adjusting operations as necessary in response to changes in visibility.

Summary of the Forecast

The authorities have reiterated that adherence to safety guidelines and cautious navigation remain the most effective safeguards against fog-related incidents on the country’s vital river routes.