Rajbari, July 30 -- Ferry and launch services on the Daulatdia-Paturia route remained suspended for two weeks due to rising water levels and strong river currents, causing severe disruption and hardship for daily commuters and transport operators.

Locals said launches and ferries are now taking almost twice as long to cross the river.

Smaller vessels have been temporarily withdrawn from service, and in some cases, launches are being moored away from the main pontoons near residential areas, as they are unable to withstand the force of the current.

A visit to Daulatdia revealed that no launches were docked at the usually bustling pontoons. Passengers, ticket checkers and hawkers were seen waiting, while the pontoons occasionally shook u...