Following the capsize of a mechanised boat with over 40 passengers onboard, Assam Government seems to have finally woken up from deep slumber.
The state Transport department has ordered to immediately halt the plying of mechanised country boats (bhutbhuti) between North Guwahati and Guwahati on the Brahmaputra River.
Also read: Boat carrying 40 passengers capsized at Brahmaputra in Guwahati
Transport Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary in stament issued after the incident on Wednesday said the order will remain effective during the entire rainy season.
The Minister added that three new vessels for ferry service between North Guwahati and Guwahati will be introduced this month for public convenience.
The Transport Department is ready with a draft bill for constitution of a Regulatory Body which will be soon placed before the Assembly for approval, he said.
Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has ordered a probe into the incident. Additional Chief Secretary Jishnu Baruah has been asked to conduct the probe and submit a report.
