TBM Report
United States Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen visited the renowned Bhimruli floating guava market in Jhalakathi on Sunday morning to experience the region’s unique water-based trade and natural landscape.
Ambassador Christensen arrived at the Bhimruli floating market around 9:00 AM, where he was formally received with flowers by Kawsar Hossain, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Jhalakathi.
Following the reception, the ambassador boarded a traditional wooden boat to tour the floating trade network. During his boat ride, Christensen sampled locally grown guavas and observed local farmers trading fresh produce directly from their small boats along the canal system.
After spending time amidst the bustling floating market, the US diplomat traveled via engine boat toward the neighboring Atghar Kuriana guava orchards in Pirojpur district. Senior officials from the US Embassy in Dhaka and members of the local civil administration accompanied him throughout the visit.
Speaking to journalists during the tour, Ambassador Christensen shared his impression of the unique cultural landmark, highlighting the picturesque surroundings and the warm hospitality of the local farming community.
The Bhimruli floating market, located at the intersection of Jhalakathi, Barishal, and Pirojpur, represents one of South Asia’s largest waterborne agricultural hubs, drawing thousands of domestic and international visitors during the annual guava harvesting season.
