The century-old boat markets in Kotaliapara Upazila of Gopalganj are witnessing a sharp decline in activity due to unplanned construction of fish ponds, encroachment of government canals and water bodies, and other natural factors. As a result, the use and trade of traditional boats have significantly decreased.
Field visits to the historic boat markets reveal a slow and inactive atmosphere with far fewer boats on sale compared to previous years. Once bustling with hundreds of sellers and buyers, now only a handful of sellers remain, and the demand has dwindled sharply.
Naresh Baroi, a boat trader from Jathia village, noted that in the past, sturdy boats made from Sundari and ironwood were common and could last 15 to 20 years. Nowadays, most boats are crafted from rain tree and mahogany, which only last about a year. Baroi added that due to last year’s boat damage, he came to buy a new one this year but found prices have risen considerably.
Boat seller Gopal Gharami explained that rising costs of wood, iron, and labor have forced sellers to increase prices. He noted that while 20-30 boats used to be sold per market, now only 3-4 boats are sold, forcing higher prices to cover costs.
Another seller, Shyamal Mondal, said that encroachment on canals, unplanned fish pond construction, and other factors have drastically reduced boat usage. Now, only a few fish pond owners buy boats for feeding their fish.
Local cultural activist Sojal Bala lamented that the vibrant river-centered culture around the Ghaghar boat market has faded. Previously, sellers would sing and row boats to the market, and buyers would joyfully take their boats home the same way. Now, boats arrive and leave mostly by van, losing the cultural essence.
Bala blamed unplanned development and pond encroachment for destroying a part of local heritage and urged authorities to preserve boat traditions for future generations.
Upazila Executive Officer Masum Billah acknowledged that boats are an integral part of the local history and culture. While usage has declined over time, he assured that the administration is ready to support anyone seeking assistance to revive boat production and use in the area. He also announced upcoming steps to reclaim encroached canals and water bodies.
