As the monsoon arrives, many parts of southern Bangladesh go under water. But in Pirojpur, the rainy season also brings a special tradition to life. The Floating Boat Market in Pirojpur is held twice a week at Atghar Kuriana in Nesarabad upazila.
The market is known for its long history and unique setting. Every Friday and Monday, boat makers and traders gather with hundreds of small boats. Some boats float on the water, while many others are lined up on the land beside the market.
Floating Boat Market in Pirojpur
The scene is different from an ordinary market. Boats of different sizes, shapes and designs can be seen together, creating a colorful view for visitors.
A Seasonal Market for Small Boats
The Floating Boat Market in Pirojpur usually remains active for about three months during the monsoon season. Trading starts in the morning and continues until the afternoon.
Read More:
- Ninth Pay Scale to Be Implemented in Two Phases
- Monirul Islam Raises New Questions About Bangladesh’s 2024 Political Change
- Three District DCs Withdrawn
Boat makers bring their products according to local demand. Buyers can find boats at different prices and sizes. Some small boats are sold for around Tk 2,500, while larger ones can cost Tk 3,500 to Tk 5,000 or more.
Local traders say a seller may bring dozens of boats to the market on a single market day. Sales can also reach several lakh taka on a busy day.
Boats Used in Daily Life
For people in the southern districts, these boats are more than just a traditional product. They are part of everyday life.
Many local people use the boats for fishing, carrying goods and travelling through waterways. People involved in agriculture and fruit businesses also use them for different types of work.
The boats are made from several types of wood, including chambal, mahogany, koroi and rain tree. Skilled local craftsmen are involved in making these boats, and the tradition has continued through generations.
Buyers Come From Different Districts
The market attracts buyers from different parts of southern Bangladesh. Boats purchased here are taken to areas including Barishal, Jhalokathi, Betagi and other nearby regions.
The demand is not limited to the local area. Traders say these traditional boats are still needed in many places where waterways remain an important part of transportation and daily work.
However, some buyers say boat prices have increased compared with previous years. According to them, the price of a boat can now be around Tk 1,000 to Tk 1,200 higher than before, depending on its size and design.
A Growing Attraction for Tourists
The market is not only important for business. It has also become an interesting place for tourists.
Visitors are attracted by the sight of hundreds of boats gathered in one place. The combination of water, wooden boats and the busy market creates a scene that is closely connected with the culture of southern Bangladesh.
Some visitors believe the area has the potential to become a major tourism destination. Better roads, transportation and accommodation facilities could make it easier for tourists to visit and stay in the area.
There is also interest from foreign visitors. With better promotion and facilities, the traditional boat market could attract more tourists from outside Bangladesh as well.
A Tradition Worth Preserving
Modern technology and changing lifestyles have transformed many traditional industries. Yet the boat market at Atghar Kuriana continues to hold on to its old character.
The market supports many craftsmen and traders whose livelihoods are connected to boat making and selling. At the same time, it preserves a part of the cultural history of southern Bangladesh.
The Floating Boat Market in Pirojpur shows how an old tradition can remain useful even in a changing world. With proper care, better facilities and government support, this century-old market could become one of the country’s notable water-based tourism attractions.
For now, it remains a busy seasonal market where traditional boat making, local business and the natural beauty of the monsoon come together in one place.
