Tragic Bus Accident in Bangladesh: 18 Bodies Recovered from Padma River
Synopsis
A tragic bus accident in Bangladesh has resulted in the recovery of eighteen bodies from the Padma River. The bus, carrying around 40 passengers, lost control and plunged into the river. Rescue operations are ongoing as officials fear the death toll may rise.
Key Takeaways
Eighteen bodies recovered from the Padma River.
Bus accident involved around 40 passengers .
Rescue operations are ongoing, and the death toll may increase.
Prime Minister has called for enhanced rescue efforts.
Many passengers were returning from Eid holidays .
Dhaka, March 26 (NationPress) - At least eighteen bodies have been recovered following a devastating incident where a bus, transporting numerous passengers, fell into the Padma River from a pontoon at a terminal located in Bangladesh's Rajbari district, approximately 125 km south of Dhaka.
The tragic event transpired around 5:15 p.m. local time on Wednesday when the bus, en route to Dhaka, lost control, overturned, and submerged to an estimated depth of 80 feet, as reported by the Fire Service.
Sultana Akhtar, the deputy commissioner and district magistrate of Rajbari, informed Xinhua that around 40 passengers were on board the ill-fated bus.
"As of now, the bodies of eighteen individuals, including 10 women and 2 children, have been retrieved," she stated.
Initial reports indicated that two bodies were recovered promptly. Subsequently, the rescue vessel Hamza successfully lifted the submerged bus at 11:50 p.m. local time on Wednesday, during which an additional 16 bodies were discovered, according to Xinhua.
Officials are apprehensive that the death toll could escalate, as the search and rescue operation is still ongoing, with more bodies expected to be found.
Fire service and coastguard divers, supported by military and police personnel, are continuing their search for the missing individuals, as noted by Rana.
Authorities estimate that the bus was carrying approximately 40 passengers, including several children, many of whom were returning to the capital after the conclusion of their Eid holidays.
Local media reported that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman expressed profound concern regarding the tragedy, urging authorities to exert all possible efforts for rescue and to ensure that the injured receive medical attention.
Medical staff at Dauladia health complex confirmed that two deceased women were brought in, while another woman, who is a doctor, received treatment.
According to witnesses and officials, numerous passengers were from the same family. While some managed to survive by standing outside, their relatives were trapped inside the bus as it sank.
Point of View
It is evident that this tragic incident has deeply impacted the community. The ongoing search and rescue efforts reflect the commitment of local authorities to address the situation, while the Prime Minister's concern underscores the gravity of the event. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.
NationPress
2 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the bus to plunge into the Padma River?
The bus reportedly lost control and overturned before sinking into the river.
How many passengers were on the bus?
There were approximately 40 passengers on board the bus.
What is being done for the rescue operations?
Fire service and coastguard divers, along with military and police, are conducting search and rescue operations.
What is the condition of the injured?
Medical personnel are treating the injured, with some victims already confirmed deceased.
Has the Prime Minister commented on the incident?
Yes, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman expressed deep concern and urged authorities to enhance rescue efforts.
