DHAKA, March 26: At least 24 people were killed and several others remain missing after a bus plunged into the Padma River in Rajbari, southwestern Bangladesh.
The accident occurred on Wednesday evening at the busy Dauladia ferry terminal as the Dhaka-bound bus, carrying around 40 passengers, attempted to board a ferry.
Most passengers were returning to Dhaka after the Eid holidays, and several children were among those on board.
According to officials, 24 bodies have been recovered so far, including 11 women, six men, and five children.
Initially, divers retrieved two bodies, while the rest were found after the submerged bus was lifted from the river late at night following a six-hour rescue operation in difficult weather conditions.
Rescue efforts involved fire service teams, coastguard divers, and support from the military and police, who continue searching for missing passengers.
Authorities said around 11 people managed to survive by swimming to safety or being rescued shortly after the accident.
Witnesses reported that the incident occurred when a smaller utility ferry collided with the pontoon as the bus was moving toward the main ferry.
The impact caused the driver to lose control, sending the vehicle plunging into the river within moments.
Many victims were reportedly from the same families, with some relatives surviving because they were outside the bus at the time.
The tragedy has deeply affected the local community.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. Officials said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has been monitoring the situation and ordered a detailed probe into the cause of the accident. (PTI)
