Deadly Ferry Disaster at Daulatdia Ghat: 18 Dead and Counting
A passenger bus plunged into the Padma River at Daulatdia ghat, sparking a tragic disaster that has left 18 dead. The bus, heading to Dhaka from Kushtia’s Kumarkhali, lost control while boarding a ferry at around 5:20pm on Wednesday.
Operated by Sauhardya Paribahan, the packed bus plunged into the 30-foot deep river from the No. 3 terminal, triggering a desperate rescue operation.
Rescue Race Underway – Many Still Missing
Fire Service official Shajahan Sikder confirmed that by 2am Thursday, 16 bodies were recovered from the sunken bus. Two women, Rehana (60) and Morzina (55), later died at the local health complex, pushing death toll to 18.
The recovered victims include 10 women, 4 men, and 2 children, though their identities remain unconfirmed. Four survivors injured in the crash were taken to Goaland Upazila Health Complex; two died at the hospital, one named Nusrat remains in treatment, while another survivor, Shiuli, has been discharged.
Heart-Stopping Survivor Stories and Massive Rescue Efforts
- 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 crammed to capacity at the time.
- Villagers fought through the night alongside firefighters and divers in a desperate bid to find survivors.
Official Inquiry Launched and Families Supported
State Shipping Minister Md Rajib Ahsan announced two investigation committees have been formed, with reports expected in 3-4 days.
The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority, navy police, coast guard, and army are all involved in the ongoing search operation. Local authorities are preparing a list of missing persons and urging families to contact them.
Victims’ families are receiving initial compensation of Tk 25,000 to assist with burial costs amid the heartbreaking tragedy.
