In the southwestern delta of Bangladesh, where roads vanish under monsoon waters, boats are critical for survival. Whether it is fishing, visiting the local bazaar, harvesting crops, or going to school, the rainy season demands one thing above all — a boat. This necessity has made the vessel an indispensable part of the rural economy. For those looking to buy one, the best destination remains the century-old Sheikhpura boat market in Khulna’s Terokhada upazila.

The century-old boat market in Bhanga upazila of Faridpur is abuzz with buyers and sellers thanks to rising water levels in the Kumar river amid recent rains, but customer turnout is far less than before.

A half-century old local market of dinghy (small boat) in Manikganj has garnered popularity for the quality of boats sold there, with buyers coming from across the country.