The primary cause behind launch capsize, as found by the shipping directorate engineers, is that most of the vessels do not have a solid ballast, and, to make matters worse, they are structurally top-heavy. Resultantly, they can't withstand the pressure of sudden gusty winds. It is really disturbing to learn that 212 out of 312 launches that came under scrutiny are faulty in some way or the other.

Little wonder, so many launch disasters took place over the last few years. The directorate officials admit to having failed to make the owners comply with the rules because of the latter's clout and influence holding sway over them. Politically influential vessel owners have managed to thwart attempts at setting things right. They resort to strike when safety standards and other rules are sought to be enforced and passengers are the ones to suffer. Political meddling into application of law has created a situation where the concern for the safety of passengers is being totally ignored.

It is no secret that a huge number of vessels are not river-worthy. The issue is usually raised after every launch capsize which triggers a public uproar, with the government promising to take all kinds of corrective measures, but very little happens on the ground. The navigational rules are laid down, only to be flouted with impunity. Even over the latest findings the owners are skeptical and have dismissed the allegations brought against them as baseless.

The government has to take a firm stand on the matter. The task on the decision-makers' hands is to neutralise the owners' clout and have them go by the rules on pain of losing their business. They must not forget that the rainy season has begun and human lives are once again exposed to danger. There is absolutely no room for laxity.