Dhaka : The death toll from the bus accident in Rajbari District has risen to 26 after a passenger bus plunged into the Padma River while boarding a ferry at Daulatdia Ghat.
According to fire service officials, 23 bodies were recovered from inside the bus, including 11 women, 8 men, and 5 children. Eight people were initially rescued alive, but three later died in hospital, while search operations are still ongoing for missing passengers. Authorities have handed over 22 bodies to the victims’ families so far.
The accident occurred when the driver reportedly lost control while driving the bus onto the ferry, causing it to fall into the river within seconds. Witnesses said several passengers tried to swim to safety after the vehicle sank.
Around 40 people were on board the bus, which was traveling toward Dhaka on Wednesday evening. Many passengers were returning to the capital after Eid holidays, including entire families and children.
In Bangladesh, ferries are commonly used to transport vehicles across rivers. Following the tragedy, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman ordered an investigation and reviewed rescue operations.
The rescue effort involved four fire service teams, along with divers and personnel from the army, police, coast guard, Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation, and local administration. Of the total recoveries, most bodies were retrieved by fire service teams, while others were recovered by locals and navy divers.
After nearly six hours of effort, the sunken bus was pulled out around midnight with the help of a vessel named “Hamza.” Divers continue to search the river for any remaining missing persons.
Authorities have formed a five-member inquiry committee led by the Additional District Magistrate, including officials from police and fire services. The panel has been asked to submit its report within three days.