The Department of Meteorology has issued a safety advisory for inland river ports and riverine areas across the country, urging heightened caution for all waterborne transport. The warning comes amid forecasts of dense fog, which is expected to drastically reduce visibility, posing significant risks for vessel operators, crew, and passengers.
According to the advisory, from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Monday, 2 February, visibility along inland river ports may drop to approximately 400 metres in general, with certain locations experiencing even lower visibility. Under these conditions, operating vessels at speed or without due care could prove extremely hazardous.
The Department of Meteorology emphasises that no special signals or markers are required during periods of dense fog. However, all operators are urged to adhere to strict safety measures, including:
Exercising heightened vigilance while navigating.
Reducing speed and proceeding according to visibility conditions.
Preparing to stop vessels if necessary.
Advising passengers in riverside areas to remain in safe locations.
The table below summarises the forecasted impact of the dense fog on major riverine regions:
| District/Region | Estimated Visibility (metres) | Fog Intensity | Safety Alert Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dhaka and surrounding rivers | 350–400 | Light to moderate | High |
| Chittagong river areas | 400–500 | Moderate | Medium |
| Rajshahi & Barisal | 350–450 | Light to moderate | High |
| Khulna river areas | 350–400 | Dense | High |
The meteorological office further warned that visibility may decline suddenly, increasing the risk of navigational errors. Unnecessary haste or rapid movement on the rivers could be extremely dangerous. Passengers are urged to remain alert and comply with crew instructions at all times.
For safe river navigation, authorities have recommended that vessel operators maintain regular communication with the Inland Water Transport Department. Communities residing along riverbanks are also advised to avoid approaching rivers during dense fog. The Meteorological Department has indicated that updates or new advisories may be issued within the next 24 hours, depending on changing weather conditions.
Dense fog typically intensifies during the winter season and poses serious hazards to both crews and passengers in riverine areas. Adhering to safety guidelines and exercising timely caution is therefore essential to ensure secure and accident-free navigation.