For generations, Aug. 9 -- building has been more than a traditional craft in Nesarabad upazila of Pirojpur - it has been a vital source of livelihood for thousands of families and an important part of the local economy.

At least 5,000 to 6,000 families in the Atghar area are directly or indirectly involved in building traditional wooden boats. Around Tk 25-30 crore worth of boats are sold annually, making the industry a significant contributor to the region's economy.

The boats are traditionally built using timber such as mahogany, kalikoroi, sonai, rain tree and chambal. Though modern transportation has reduced dependence on waterways, boats remain an important means of carrying agricultural produce, including guava, hog plum and bete...