Date: March 26, 2026 l Reporter: Iwuh
A devastating transport disaster has claimed the lives of at least 26 people in central Bangladesh after a passenger bus plunged into the Padma River while attempting to board a ferry, authorities confirmed on Thursday.
The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday in the Rajbari district, approximately 80 to 100 kilometers from the capital, Dhaka, as the bus carrying about 40 to 50 passengers lost control near the Daulatdia ferry terminal and fell into the river.
Rescue officials reported that many passengers were trapped inside the submerged vehicle as it sank to significant depth, making rescue efforts extremely difficult. Emergency teams, including fire service divers, the army, navy, police, and coast guard, launched a large-scale operation to recover victims and search for survivors.
Authorities confirmed that the death toll rose to 26 after bodies were recovered from the wreckage and surrounding waters. Among the victims were women and children, highlighting the scale of the tragedy.
A number of passengers were rescued alive, with some managing to swim to safety after the bus plunged into the river. However, officials fear that additional passengers may still be missing, as search operations continue amid difficult conditions, including strong currents and heavy rain.
Preliminary findings suggest the accident occurred as the bus attempted to drive onto a ferry when it suddenly lost control, causing it to topple into the river. Investigations have been launched to determine the exact cause of the crash and whether negligence or mechanical failure played a role.
The bus was reportedly traveling from Kushtia to Dhaka, carrying passengers returning to the capital following the Eid al-Fitr holiday, a period often associated with heavy travel across the country.
The tragedy once again highlights ongoing concerns about transportation safety in Bangladesh, where road and ferry accidents remain frequent due to infrastructure challenges, overcrowding, and enforcement gaps.
As families mourn their loved ones, authorities have pledged a full investigation while rescue teams continue efforts to account for all passengers involved in one of the country’s deadliest recent transport accidents.