SHAMIMA RITA

The Hatirjheel water taxi service in the capital is facing the risk of a complete shutdown as the ongoing fuel crisis begins to hit the alternative transport system, operators said.

Since Eid-ul-Fitr, trips have been reduced to conserve fuel, with nearly 50 percent of trips already suspended. Passengers are now facing long waits, increasing their hardship.

According to authorities, around 10,000 to 15,000 passengers use the service daily, many of whom rely on it to avoid road congestion. However, uncertainty is growing as fuel shortages persist.

Operators warned that if the fuel supply is not restored soon, even the reduced services may be halted.

Among 15 boats of the water taxi service, 12 to 13 usually operate on four routes -- FDC, Rampura Bridge, Gudaraghat, and Police Plaza.

Among them, three large vessels can carry up to 215 passengers, but not all boats are running regularly due to fuel constraints, disrupting schedules.

During a visit to FDC and Rampura ghats on Sunday afternoon, four boats were seen lying idle. Only three boats were operating between FDC and Rampura, while two were running on the Police Plaza–Gulshan route. Passenger numbers were also lower than usual.

Many passengers expressed frustration as boats did not depart even long after ticket sales. Many were seen leaving the ghats to seek alternative transport.

Ripa Chakma, a regular passenger from Middle Badda, said, “The boat does not leave unless there are at least 15 passengers.

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