Authorities concerned found the new set of rules necessary after a ferry carrying more than 70 locals capsized in the river on August 5. Two of them died in the accident and 70 others are still missing. [break]
Locals must now wear lifejackets while taking a boat ride, only experienced boat operators would be allowed to row the boats and all the passengers should have life insurance, informed Udayapur Local Development Officer Gopal Kumar Adhikari.
“From now on, personal details of boat passengers such as name, weight, address and contact number will be recorded compulsorily before they embark,” said Adhikari.
The meeting was held in the presence of Udayaypur Chief District Officer (CDO) Raj Kumar Shrestha and Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ajaya Bhattarai along with Adhikari.
From Sunsari district, Deputy Chief District Officer Chandeshowr Pokharel, Local Development Officer Rajendra Dev Panday and Deputy Superintendent of Police Ganesh Thapa attended the meeting.
The officials have also decided to prepare a rescue team to be deployed during the wee hours, informed Adhikari.
“The meeting ended with discussions on preventive measures and possible ways to protect locals during accidents. In addition, a rescue team will be on stand by in case of accident,” said Adhikari.
The officials from both districts have decided to collaborate on the implementation of the newly set rules.
“The real task will start right after we receive the report from an ongoing field visit,” Adhikari also said.
Related story
When will it end?
