Traditional boat race to return to Brahmanbaria after two-year hiatus

The traditional boat race will return to Brahmanbaria’s Titas River on 12 September after a two-year hiatus, with the district administration imposing restrictions on sound systems and dancing on boats as part of safety measures.

The decisions were taken today (24 August) at a preparatory meeting held at the district administration’s conference room, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Md Abu Sayeed.

The annual race, organised by the district administration, attracts thousands of spectators to both banks of the Titas River, including visitors from neighbouring districts. The event was not held in 2024 or 2025.

At the meeting, officials discussed several measures to ensure the competition is held peacefully and safely. Among them, spectators will not be allowed to use sound systems or engage in dancing on boats while watching the race.

Explaining the decision, Deputy Commissioner Md Abu Sayeed said young spectators often play loud music and dance on boats during the race, which can lead to unruly behaviour and make it difficult for police to maintain control.

“There have been deaths after people fell into the water before,” he said.

He added that no unauthorised boats or people will be allowed into the designated section of the river where the race will take place.

District Council Administrator Sirajul Islam, Local Government Division Deputy Director Md Shariful Islam, Additional Superintendent of Police (Nabinagar Circle) Piyas Basak, District Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Mobarak Hossain, Brahmanbaria Press Club President Jabed Rahim Bijon and District Sports Association General Secretary Tanim Shahed Ripon, among others, attended the meeting.