Tragedy Strikes at Daulatdia Ghat
The death toll has surged to 18 after a passenger bus fell off a ferry into the Padma River at Daulatdia ghat in Goaland upazila. The horrific accident occurred at around 5:20pm on Wednesday.
The ill-fated bus, operated by Sauhardya Paribahan and bound for Dhaka from Kushtia’s Kumarkhali, lost control while boarding the ferry at the No. 3 terminal before plunging into the 30-foot deep river.
Rescue Ops Continue as Many Still Missing
Shajahan Sikder from the Fire Service confirmed 16 bodies were recovered from the submerged bus by 2:00am Thursday. Two women — Rehana, 60, and Morzina, 55 — died at the local health complex, pushing the death toll to 18.
Among the recovered victims were 10 women, 4 men, and 2 children, though identities remain unconfirmed. Four injured survivors were rushed to Goaland Upazila Health Complex. Two died in the hospital, one named Nusrat remains under treatment, and another, Shiuli, was discharged.
Survivor Accounts and Emergency Response
- Kalam Hossain, a survivor, said: “I was on the bus and escaped onto the pontoon. The bus sank in seconds.”
- Monir Hossain, ticket checker, revealed the 40-seat bus was fully packed at the time.
- Local villagers joined firefighters and divers in rescue efforts through the night.
Official Probe Launched; Families Receive Support
State Shipping Minister Md Rajib Ahsan confirmed that two investigation committees have been set up. Reports are expected within 3-4 days.
The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority, the navy police, the coast guard, and the army are all involved in the ongoing search operation.
The district authorities are preparing a missing persons list. Families are urged to contact local administration offices.
Initial compensation of Tk 25,000 is being provided to victims’ families to help with burial rites.
