The riverside upazila of Ashashuni was once bustling with tabure (traditional passenger boats) and cargo-laden sailboats, which were the primary means of transport for travel, trade, and wedding ceremonies. Hundreds of oar-driven boats used to ply the Betna, Kapotaksha, Morichchap, and Kholpetua rivers daily.
However, the scenario has completely changed now. Due to improved road connectivity, bridge construction, and reduced river navigability, the age-old profession of boatmen is on the verge of extinction. Many boatmen are being forced to switch professions, taking up work as day laborers, woodcutters, or fishermen.
Salam, a former boatman from Mahishkur Ghat, said, “The rivers have shrunk, bridges have been built everywhere. There are no passengers or cargo left. Now, we barely earn anything. Still, we’re trying to survive.”
Karim, a boatman from Ghola Kheya Ghat, explained that most boatmen now operate engine-run boats leased from moneylenders. But after paying for boat rent, tolls, and fuel, they are left with almost nothing at the end of the day.
Ashashuni once had over a hundred ferry ghats buzzing with activity. Now, most are defunct. While a few still operate on a limited scale, passenger numbers have drastically declined.
Moreover, the rivers once teemed with hundreds of fish species, providing boatmen with an additional source of income. Now, neither fish nor navigable rivers remain, leaving boatmen in dire straits.
Local journalist Yasin Arafat Danish said, “Boats are our region’s ancient mode of transport and cultural heritage. While engine-powered vehicles have gained importance with time, we don’t want to lose our rural traditions. Initiatives must be taken to ensure alternative livelihoods for boatmen and preserve this heritage.”
