Noakhali correspondent 

Nalchira Ghat, one of the main entry points to the remote island upazila of Hatiya, has been severely damaged by the devastating impact of Cyclone ‘Shakti’. The strong winds and tidal surges caused by the storm have destroyed major infrastructures of the ghat including pontoons, walkways, and jetties. As a result, Hatiya’s communication with the mainland has been virtually cut off.

Hundreds of passengers and cargo vessels such as trawlers, launches, sea trucks, and speedboats use this vital ghat daily. However, now locals are forced to travel using makeshift wooden bridges or other risky methods. This has caused extreme difficulties for patients, women, and the elderly.

Local resident Md. Zahid Uddin said, “Even before the cyclone, the ghat was in a dilapidated state. Now it has completely collapsed. Neither patients nor the elderly can use the ghat. We are practically in a state of isolation.”

An on-site visit revealed that the pontoon has collapsed and is submerged in water. Although the jetty has been partially repaired, the iron structure has shifted, leaving no safe passage for walking. At the cyclone-hit Nalchira Ghat, passengers can be seen boarding and disembarking in hazardous conditions amid collapsed pontoons.

Nalchira Ghat's supervisor, Rahmat Ullah, stated, “The condition of Nalchira Ghat is extremely poor. The matter has already been reported to higher authorities. We have been assured of swift repairs.”

Dr. Abdur Rahman, a businessman from Nalchira Bazar, said, “If Nalchira Ghat is not repaired immediately, the communication system of the entire island will collapse. This will have a severe impact on the economy, education, healthcare, and various other sectors.” He strongly urged the Ministry of Shipping and relevant authorities to take emergency measures to repair and reconstruct the ghat.