Bangladesh, May 24 -- Memories of a tragic ferry accident during Eid-ul-Fitr that claimed 26 lives have prompted authorities to strengthen safety protocols at Manikganj's Paturia ferry terminal.

Officials claimed Eid journeys so far, despite a massive rush, have been smooth and hassle-free.

At 10am on Sunday, passengers and vehicles boarded ferries after a brief wait of 20 to 30 minutes.

The heightened vigilance followed an incident during the previous Eid festival when a passenger bus plunged into the river while boarding a ferry at the Daulatdia terminal.

The authorities have made it mandatory for commuters to disembark before their vehicles drive onto the vessels to cross the river.

"For the safety of the commuters, all passenger...