Guwahati: Shaken by the precarious ferry-service in the state after the Dhubri ferry tragedy, the Assam government is mooting to setting up of a nodal river transport authority to manage and maintain the service in the numerous water-ways of the state.
Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, talking to reporters here on Friday, said a committee has been formed by the government to recommend on ways to improve the ferry services and ensure that safety standards are maintained.
‘This committee will hold consultations with various agencies, including the Inland Water Transport, and make its suggestions based on the outcome,’ he added.
Mr Gogoi said, a nodal river transport authority is likely to be set up in the state based on the committee’s recommendations.
‘We have to concentrate on various factors to ensure safe ferry services, from safety equipment in boats to regular weather updates at the ferry ports to training and license of the drivers,’ he added.
Mr Gogoi admitted that the ferry services across the state needed a vital revamping and stricter monitoring for safety measures.
On the Dhubri tragedy, he said 40 bodies had been found so far and nine others are still reported missing. (UNI)
