Masud Khan, Munshiganj (South)
A massive surge of tourists has been observed on the newly emerged sandbar (char) along the banks of the Padma River, adjacent to the historic Shimulia Ghat in Louhajang Upazila of Munshiganj.

Taking advantage of the recent consecutive holidays, visitors and tourists are flocking to Shimulia Ghat with their families and loved ones for recreation. Many romantic couples are also visiting this riverbank shoal to capture selfies and preserve memories. Travel enthusiasts from far and wide are arriving daily to enjoy the captivating beauty of the Padma and the peaceful riverine environment.

Visiting the spot directly, thousands of people were seen roaming the vast sandy shoal with their families and loved ones. Many came seeking a moment of peace in the lap of nature, escaping the busy concrete life of the city during the holiday break. Children running around on the sandy bank, flying kites, and visitors taking photos created a festive atmosphere throughout the area. Couples were capturing selfies on their mobile phones to retain memories. Some were having fun splashing water with their feet immersed in the Padma adjacent to the shoal.

Asma Begum, a school teacher from Mirpur, Dhaka, came to visit Shimulia Ghat with her family. She mentioned that her in-laws' home is in Balasur village of Srinagar Upazila, Bikrampur. The school is closed for the Puja holidays, and she came to visit her in-laws' village home. Having heard a lot about Shimulia Ghat, she had never visited it before. .

Azim Uddin, a businessman from Narayanganj, shared that he felt very good being there. The fresh breeze of the Padma, along with its clear waters, captivates the heart.

Meanwhile, many were seen cruising across the Padma on boats and trawlers lined up along the riverbank. Centered around the arrival of tourists, the busy schedules of local small vendors, hawkers, and trawler operators have increased significantly. Temporary toy and food stalls set up on the shoal have also created a positive impact on the local economy.

According to conversations with locals, this newly emerged shoal at Shimulia Ghat turns into a mini tourist center on holidays. They believe that if overall security for visitors is ensured and cleanliness is maintained, the place will become even more attractive.

Visitors expressed their enthusiasm and satisfaction at being able to spend such joyful moments in the closeness of nature.

Ghat lessee Md. Kawsar Sheikh said, hundreds of visitors now flock every day to ride trawlers on the river, view the Padma Bridge, and enjoy boat trips. On weekends and special holidays, tourist footfall increases further.

However, BIWTA (Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority) should dredge the river to restore navigability, as there is currently almost no water in the river. Our trawlers are already hitting submerged shoals. I feel no water will be found in the Padma during the full dry season," he stated.

Louhajang UNO Farzana Boby Mitu said, a large number of visitors gather at this location. On one hand, people rush to hotel-restaurants to eat Hilsa fish; at the same time, tourists gather daily to enjoy the fresh breeze of the Padma and take trawler rides to view the Padma Bridge and the scenic river views.

"Police, Tourist Police, and personnel from various government agencies are working to ensure their security.