Bus falls into River Padma while boarding ferry in Bangladesh, deaths feared

A passenger bus plunged into River Padma in Bangladesh on Wednesday while it was going to board a ferry at Daulatdia terminal in Rajbari, triggering fears of multiple casualties. The “Souhardya Paribahan” bus reportedly lost control and sank into the river with several passengers on board.

Fire Service officials said rescue operations were launched immediately, with a diving team deployed at the site and additional personnel sent from Dhaka. Local accounts suggested around 40 passengers were on the bus. Some managed to swim ashore, with five to seven reaching the bank on their own, while at least two others were rescued by locals.

Rescue efforts have been hampered by strong currents and the river’s depth, even as police and local authorities joined the operation. The incident sparked panic in the area, with crowds gathering at the terminal and briefly disrupting rescue work.

Authorities suspect the accident may have been caused by mechanical failure or lack of caution while boarding the ferry, though an investigation has been launched. The exact number of casualties remains unclear and will be confirmed after rescue operations conclude.

- Ends