Bus sinks in Bangladesh river, killing at least 18 people
Rescue efforts continue in Rajbari as authorities launch a swift investigation into one of the region’s deadliest ferry-related accidents
RAJBARI, Bangladesh: A tragic accident in Bangladesh’s Rajbari district has claimed at least 26 lives after a passenger bus plunged into the Padma River while attempting to board a ferry at Daulatdia.
Rescue teams confirmed the recovery of 26 bodies as of late Thursday morning, with operations still ongoing, according to The Daily Star.
The victims include 11 women, eight men, and seven children, underscoring the devastating human toll of the incident. Authorities have already handed over 22 of the recovered bodies to grieving families.
The accident occurred during the ferry boarding process, a routine but often congested operation at one of the country’s busiest river crossings.
Emergency response teams, including fire service personnel, divers, army units, police, Coast Guard, and officials from the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC), were quickly mobilized to the scene.
According to fire service officials, at least four rescue units and 10 divers have been working to locate victims and recover the submerged vehicle.
Despite challenging river conditions, teams continue to search for any remaining passengers.
So far, the identities of 24 victims have been confirmed, ranging from a seven-month-old infant to elderly passengers.
The wide age range highlights the indiscriminate nature of the tragedy, which has shaken communities across multiple regions.
In response, the district administration has announced financial assistance for the affected families.
Each bereaved family will receive Tk 25,000, while injured survivors will be given Tk 15,000 to support immediate medical and recovery needs.
Authorities have also moved swiftly to determine the cause of the accident. A five-member investigation committee has been formed, led by the Additional District Magistrate.
The panel includes representatives from law enforcement, fire services, local administration, and BIWTC. Officials have been instructed to submit a detailed report within three working days.
While the exact cause remains unclear, the incident has raised fresh concerns over safety protocols during ferry operations, particularly at high-traffic terminals like Daulatdia.
As rescue efforts continue and families mourn their losses, the nation awaits answers—and accountability—behind this heartbreaking disaster.
