Ferry Boat, Shahanagar Ferry Ghat, Lalbagh, Murshidabad, West Bengal, India.
In Bengal, the cities and towns through which the Bhagirathi or the Hooghly rivers flow, the importance of ferry boats for transportation is more because this journey is cheap and completed in less time considerably it’s the lifeline of the Bengal.
For excursion from Murshidabad to Khoshbagh, Roshnibagh and Azimganj, this mode of transport was used and the journey was safe and enjoyable.
There are many ghats on both the banks of Bhagirathi from where ferry boats are operated. And we chose Shahnagar Ghat which is situated in Lalbagh Murshidabad on the eastern bank of the river which is connected via ferryboat to Elahiganj Ferry Ghat on the western bank.
The ferry is operated by private contractors. There is a provision of ramps and jetties so that passengers can reach from one side to the other with cars, rickshaws, cycles, motor cycles etc.
The level floor is made of bamboo by joining traditional wooden boats and there is a provision of bamboo benches for the passengers to sit. There is a bamboo railing for safety. Diesel engines are used to propel. Life jackets were not available in the ferry.
The experience was pleasant and new as ferries are not prevalent everywhere. River crossing by ferry is affordable, time saving, enjoyable and scenic views of the river banks remain a memorable gift of this journey. Ferry boats are considered the lifeline of Bengal.