Patna, Aug 4 (IANS) Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary on Tuesday flagged off a free steamer ferry service between Nasriganj Ghat and Panapur Ghat in Danapur, Patna, aimed at providing safer and easier river connectivity to residents of the Diara region.
During the launch ceremony, District Magistrate Kundan Kumar briefed the Chief Minister about the operation of the ferry service. Chaudhary inspected the steamer and interacted with passengers on board. Local public representatives, political leaders and residents welcomed him with bouquets and garlands.
Speaking on the occasion, Chaudhary said the Nasriganj‑Panapur ferry service would significantly ease transportation for residents of the riverine areas and help boost local economic activity. The service will be provided free of charge.
The ferry service is expected to provide major relief to residents of the Danapur Diara area, particularly during the monsoon when crossing the Ganges becomes difficult. It will directly benefit residents of six Gram Panchayats, Purani Panapur, Manas, Kasimchak, Hetanpur, Ganghara and Patlapur.
Under the existing arrangement, a pontoon bridge, locally known as Pipa Pul, connects the Diara area with Danapur from November until June 15. The bridge is dismantled for the remaining months, leaving residents dependent on boats and other arrangements to cross the river.
The newly launched steamer service is expected to provide a safer and more reliable alternative during this period.
The ferry is also expected to benefit farmers, vegetable and fruit growers, dairy producers and local traders by improving access to markets on both sides of the Ganges. The government expects easier transportation of agricultural and dairy products to encourage local trade and contribute to economic activity in the region.
The service will also make commuting easier for government employees and workers posted in the Diara area. There are currently 58 schools operating in the region, with 553 teachers and other personnel.
In addition, the area has 95 Anganwadi centres staffed by 190 Sevikas and Sahayikas, along with three health sub‑centres and Panchayat offices.
The ferry service is expected to make daily travel easier for teachers, school staff, Anganwadi workers, health workers and Panchayat employees who need to cross the river for work. The improved use of water transport will also provide residents on both banks of the Ganges with an additional and convenient commuting option.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, Cooperation Minister Ramkripal Yadav, MLC Anamika Singh, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Deepak Kumar, Secretary to the Chief Minister Sanjay Kumar Singh, District Magistrate Kundan Kumar and Senior Superintendent of Police Kartikeya K. Sharma were among those present at the launch ceremony.
–IANS
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