Bihar News : Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Tuesday inaugurated a free steamer ferry service between Nasriganj Ghat and Panapur Ghat in Danapur by flagging off the service. The initiative is expected to make river transport easier and safer for people living in the Diara areas along the Ganga.
During the event, District Magistrate Kundan Kumar briefed the Chief Minister about the ferry service. Choudhary inspected the steamer and interacted with passengers on board. Local representatives, leaders and residents welcomed the Chief Minister with bouquets and garlands.
Free Ferry to Boost Connectivity and Local Economy
Choudhary said the Nasriganj-Panapur ferry service would significantly improve connectivity while giving a boost to economic activities in the area. The service will be provided completely free of charge.
The ferry will benefit residents of the Diara region, particularly vegetable and fruit growers and traders, milk producers and farmers. Easier transportation of agricultural and dairy products to markets is expected to promote local trade and strengthen economic activity.
Major Relief During Monsoon
A pontoon bridge across the Ganga generally operates from November to June 15. It is removed during the monsoon, leaving residents of the Diara region with considerable difficulties and risks while crossing the river.
The new ferry service will provide a safer and more convenient alternative during this period. Residents of six gram panchayats—Purani Panapur, Manas, Qasimchak, Hetanpur, Gangahara and Patalapur—will directly benefit from the service.
Teachers, Health Workers to Benefit
The Diara region currently has 58 schools, employing 553 teachers and staff. The area also has 95 Anganwadi centres with 190 Anganwadi workers and helpers, besides three health sub-centres and panchayat offices.
The ferry service will make commuting easier for teachers, school staff, Anganwadi workers and helpers, health workers and panchayat employees travelling to their workplaces.
The initiative will provide residents on both sides of the Ganga with an additional and convenient mode of transport. Improved water connectivity is also expected to facilitate the movement of agricultural and dairy products to markets and accelerate local economic activity.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary, Cooperation Minister Ramkripal Yadav, Legislative Council member Anamika Singh, Chief Minister’s Principal Secretary Deepak Kumar, Chief Minister’s Secretary Sanjay Kumar Singh, District Magistrate Kundan Kumar and Senior Superintendent of Police Kartikeya K. Sharma were among those present at the event.
