Tragedy Strikes as Bus Plunges into Padma River, Claiming Multiple Lives
A devastating incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon at Daulatdia Ghat in Goalanda Upazila, when a passenger bus plunged into the Padma River, resulting in a significant loss of life. Rescuers have worked tirelessly through the night to recover bodies from the submerged vehicle, confirming fourteen fatalities.
The grim task of identification has begun, with two victims positively identified as Rehena Akhter and Morjina Begum. The identities of the remaining deceased could not be immediately confirmed due to the challenging circumstances and the timing of their recovery, which took place between 11:30 pm and 12:45 am.
Survivors of the tragic accident are receiving medical attention. As of the latest reports, two passengers are currently being treated at the Daulatdia Upazila Health Complex, while another individual is receiving care at home. The focus has also shifted to the recovery of the bus itself, with efforts underway to pull the submerged vehicle from the river.
Circumstances Leading to the Catastrophe
Initial accounts suggest that the bus, operated by Showhardo Paribahan, departed from its origin point around 2:30 pm. According to Tanmoy Ahmed, the counter master of Showhardo Paribahan, the bus initially carried eight passengers. As the journey progressed, the passenger count increased significantly with additional boardings at various points along the route. Seven more passengers joined at Khoksa, followed by four at Machpara, and a final fifteen at Pangsha. This brought the total number of passengers on board to approximately 50, exceeding the bus’s stated capacity of 40 seats, and including the driver and helper.
The ill-fated bus reached Ghat No. 3 in Daulatdia at approximately 5:15 pm, where it was awaiting a ferry to cross the river. The situation took a catastrophic turn when a utility ferry, identified as Hasna Hena, unexpectedly collided with the pontoon.
Md. Monir Hossain, who is in charge of the ghat, described the moments leading up to the disaster. He stated that the impact of the ferry hitting the pontoon was severe enough that the bus, which was positioned on the pontoon, lost its stability and plunged into the Padma River.
Rescue Operations and Ongoing Investigations
Monir Hossain further elaborated that while some passengers were fortunate enough to escape the sinking bus, a significant number were trapped inside the vehicle as it submerged.
Station Officer Talha bin Zashim of the Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD) confirmed that the bus has been located in the river. The challenging operation to lift the bus from the water is currently underway, with assistance being provided by BIWTA’s specialized rescue vessel, Hamza. The recovery of the bus is crucial for a thorough investigation into the causes of the accident and to potentially recover any remaining victims or evidence.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, raising questions about ferry safety protocols and the management of overloaded public transportation. Authorities are expected to launch a comprehensive investigation into the collision and the subsequent sinking of the bus to determine accountability and implement measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The focus remains on the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts, as well as providing support to the families of those affected by this devastating event.
