Boat service on Ganga
By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: In view of the heavy rush expected at the Ganga ghats on New Year’s Day, the district administration has taken a major preventive step. Citing safety and law-and-order concerns, the operation of private boats on the Ganga river has been completely banned in the Patna Sadar subdivision on January 1, 2026. The prohibition will remain in force from 6 am on December 31, 2025, until the night of January 1, 2026.
Heavy Crowds Prompt Preventive Action
Every year on January 1, large numbers of people gather at the ghats for holy dips in the Ganga and for picnics. The crowd pressure is particularly high at Patna’s riverfront. During such occasions, boatmen are often found ferrying passengers far beyond permitted capacity, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
Ban to Also Apply on Christmas Day
Considering the potential danger, the administration has acted in advance. The Sub-Divisional Magistrate has also ordered a complete ban on boat operations on December 25, Christmas Day, when a similar surge of visitors is witnessed at the ghats.
Legal Basis and Strict Enforcement
According to the order issued by Patna Sadar Sub-Divisional Magistrate Gaurav Kumar, the restriction has been imposed under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. During the notified period, no private boat or vessel will be allowed to operate on the Ganga without permission. Strict action will be taken against anyone found violating the order.
Reference to Past Tragedy
The administration has also cited a tragic incident from the past to underline the seriousness of the decision. On January 14, 2017, during Makar Sankranti, a boat capsized near Gandhi Ghat in Patna, claiming the lives of around 21 people. Most of the victims were women and children returning from a kite festival, an incident that had shaken the entire state.
Safety the Top Priority
Officials believe that allowing boat services during New Year celebrations could lead to overloading under crowd pressure, posing a serious threat to lives and property. Determined to avoid any such mishap, the administration has chosen a zero-risk approach.
Appeal to the Public
The district administration has appealed to the public to cooperate and strictly adhere to the safety restrictions. Adequate deployment of police personnel and magistrates will be ensured at the ghats to enforce the ban effectively.
Decision Taken in Public Interest
Authorities have reiterated that the decision has been taken purely in the interest of public safety. The administration has expressed hope that people will support the move and welcome the New Year responsibly, ensuring that celebrations remain safe and incident-free.
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