16 Dead as Bus Plunges into Padma River in Rajbari
16 Dead as Bus Plunges into Padma River in Rajbari
Rescuers search for missing passengers after a Dhaka-bound bus plummeted into the Padma River near Dauladia terminal in Rajbari, leaving 16 dead and several others missing.
At least 16 people died and several others remain missing after a Dhaka-bound bus plunged into the Padma River at the Dauladia terminal in Rajbari district on Wednesday evening. Officials said the bus, carrying about 40 passengers including several children, went into the water around 5:15 p.m. while trying to board a transport ferry.
Salvage vessels, with cranes, retrieved the bus, and 14 bodies were recovered from inside. Earlier, two women in their late 50s or early 60s were found, and doctors at Dauladia health complex treated a woman who later died. Rescue teams included fire service and coastguard divers, with military and police assistance.
The salvage operation lasted about six hours amid rough weather and continued into the night as divers searched for others still unaccounted for. Police and witnesses said some passengers managed to swim ashore or were rescued, but many remained missing.
The accident apparently occurred when, as the bus was heading toward the pontoon from the smaller utility ferry, the pontoon was struck, causing the bus to lose control and plunge into the river, according to a terminal supervisor.
Officials said many passengers were members of the same family, and the incident has prompted authorities to respond quickly. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman called to know salvage campaign updates and ordered an investigation into the crash, underscoring the government’s focus on river transport safety.
As relatives awaited word, rescuers warned that the river’s current and weather could hinder efforts, while authorities stressed the need for improved safety on riverine transit during holiday travel.
