Accident – Bangladesh Bus Plunge into Padma River Leaves Dozens Dead
Accident – A devastating accident at a busy river crossing in Bangladesh has claimed multiple lives after a passenger bus plunged into the Padma River, raising serious concerns about transport safety and emergency response systems.
Bus Sinks After Losing Control at Daulatdia Ghat
At least 18 people have been confirmed dead after a passenger bus fell into the Padma River at Daulatdia Ghat on Wednesday evening. Authorities reported that several passengers remain unaccounted for, and search operations are still ongoing.
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The incident took place around 5 PM when the bus arrived near pontoon number three at the ghat. According to officials, a utility ferry named Hasna Hena collided forcefully with the pontoon at approximately 5:15 PM. The sudden impact caused the stationary bus to lose balance and slide into the river.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as the vehicle quickly submerged in the deep waters, leaving little time for passengers to react.
Rescue Operation Continues Late Into Night
Initial rescue efforts led to the recovery of two bodies shortly after the accident. Later in the night, a specialized rescue vessel named Hamza was deployed to lift the submerged bus from the riverbed.
When the bus was finally retrieved around 11:50 PM, rescuers discovered 16 more bodies inside, bringing the total death toll to 18.
Officials from the Fire Service and Civil Defence confirmed that the deceased included four men, ten women, and two children. Identification efforts are still ongoing, though two victims have been identified as Rehena Begum, aged 60, and Marjina Begum, aged 55, according to local health authorities.
Survivors Describe Panic and Desperation
Police stated that at least 11 passengers managed to escape by swimming to safety. However, many others were trapped inside the vehicle as it sank rapidly.
A video of the incident, which has since circulated widely on social media, shows a red passenger bus losing control and slipping into the river. People present at the scene can be seen rushing toward the vehicle in an attempt to help, but the speed of the घटना left them unable to prevent the tragedy.
Witnesses reported hearing screams as the bus disappeared beneath the surface within moments, highlighting the lack of immediate rescue infrastructure at the site.
Passenger Count Raises Concerns Over Safety Measures
Authorities estimate that around 40 passengers were on board at the time of the accident. The large number of passengers relative to available safety measures has raised questions about operational standards at busy ferry terminals like Daulatdia Ghat.
Transport experts note that such ghats often face heavy congestion, increasing the risk of accidents involving both road vehicles and watercraft.
Investigation and Safety Review Underway
Local administration and transport authorities have begun an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision between the ferry and the pontoon. Officials are expected to examine whether proper safety protocols were followed and if negligence played a role.
Emergency response teams continue to search the river for missing passengers, with divers and rescue workers deployed in challenging conditions.
The incident has once again brought attention to the need for stricter safety regulations and improved coordination between ferry operators and road transport services in Bangladesh.