Varanasi steps up river safety, distributes 1K life jackets to boatmen

Varanasi: In the aftermath of recent boat tragedies in Mathura and Jabalpur that claimed more than 20 lives, the Varanasi district administration has intensified efforts to enhance safety on the Ganga, where thousands of devotees, tourists and residents rely on boat services every day.

With passenger safety at the forefront and a focus on minimising disaster risks, the administration has launched a comprehensive drive to strengthen safety protocols for river transport. As part of the initiative, life jackets supplied by the Uttar Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority are being distributed free of cost to boat operators across the district.

A distribution programme was held at Namo Ghat Phase-II on Sunday, where additional district magistrate (finance and revenue) Sadanand Gupta handed over 974 life jackets to 119 boatmen. He said the administration is providing life jackets to all registered boats in a phased manner, in accordance with their authorised passenger capacity.

The move is aimed at ensuring that boat operations on the Ganga become safer, better regulated and more accountable, while significantly improving emergency preparedness in the event of any untoward incident. Officials said the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and promoting a culture of safety along one of the country’s busiest and most revered river stretches.

Boatmen and operators were instructed to thoroughly inspect the condition of all life jackets before the commencement of every voyage and ensure that each passenger on board is provided with one. They were strictly directed not to allow passengers beyond the approved carrying capacity of the vessel and to adhere meticulously to all safety norms governing inland water transport, as well as guidelines and directives issued by the government and district administration.

Officials also cautioned boat operators against venturing into the river during adverse weather conditions, including strong winds, storms, heavy rainfall or a sudden rise in the Ganga’s water level. They were directed to remain vigilant and comply fully with advisories and warnings issued by the meteorological department and local administration. Any lapse in safety, officials warned, could put at risk not only the lives of passengers but also those of the boatmen themselves.

The district administration, in coordination with the District Disaster Management Authority, has been consistently working towards safer boat operations through accident prevention measures, disaster preparedness and public awareness campaigns. The life jacket distribution drive forms a crucial part of these efforts, aimed at safeguarding every individual travelling on the Ganga and fostering a culture of responsible and secure river transport.

The successful implementation of the programme was supported by personnel from the NDRF, Water Police, Aapda Mitras and officials from various departments. Boatmen and operators were urged to embrace the principle of “Safety First”, prioritise passenger welfare at all times and actively cooperate with the administration in ensuring safe, organised and accident-free boat operations across the district.