At least 24 people were killed after a passenger bus plunged into the Padma River while attempting to board a ferry at Daulatdia ferry ghat in Bangladesh’s Rajbari district, authorities confirmed on Thursday.
WEBDESK – MediaBites News
The tragic incident occurred at one of the country’s busiest river crossings when the bus reportedly lost its balance while boarding and fell into the river. Initial reports suggest a possible operational or structural failure, though the exact cause remains under investigation.
Rescue teams, including divers and local emergency responders, launched a large-scale operation immediately after the accident. Bodies have been recovered, while search efforts continue amid fears that more passengers may still be missing.
Authorities have constituted a five-member inquiry committee to determine responsibility and identify lapses. The investigation will examine ferry boarding protocols, vehicle management systems, and the condition of infrastructure at the high-traffic terminal.
Daulatdia ferry ghat serves as a critical transport link and frequently experiences heavy congestion, particularly during peak travel periods. Safety experts have repeatedly raised concerns over overcrowding, weak enforcement of regulations, and aging facilities in Bangladesh’s river transport network.
Officials have pledged accountability if negligence is established, while emphasizing urgent reforms to improve safety standards and emergency preparedness.
The disaster has once again spotlighted systemic risks in the country’s river transport system, intensifying calls for stricter oversight, modernized infrastructure, and stronger crisis response mechanisms to prevent future tragedies.
