By Shumaila Aslam
Scandinavian News Finland
Bureau Chief Pakistan
Dhaka, Bangladesh – April 25, 2026
At least 24 people have died after a passenger bus carrying around 40 individuals plunged into the Padma River while attempting to board a ferry in Bangladesh, officials confirmed on Thursday.
The tragic incident occurred near Daulatdia Ferry Ghat in Rajbari district, roughly 100 kilometers (62 miles) southwest of Dhaka.
Accident Details
Authorities reported that the accident took place on Wednesday when the bus lost control while approaching the ferry.
The vehicle overturned and sank approximately 9 meters (30 feet) into the river.
A senior official with the Fire Service and Civil Defence, stated that rescue teams had recovered 22 bodies from inside the submerged bus.
The victims included six men, eleven women, and five children. Two additional women later succumbed to injuries after being rescued, bringing the confirmed death toll to 24.
Rescue operations are ongoing, and officials warn that some passengers may still be missing.
Emergency Response
Multiple agencies have been deployed to manage the situation:
- Four fire service units and ten divers are actively involved in search and rescue.
- Bangladesh Army, police, coast guard, and local authorities are providing support.
- Efforts are focused on recovering potential survivors and securing the area around the ferry terminal.
- Bangladesh
Officials emphasized the complexity of the rescue operation, citing strong river currents and the depth of the submerged bus.
Background: Road and Ferry Safety in Bangladesh
Bangladesh has a long-standing issue with road and ferry safety. Every year, hundreds of people lose their lives in similar accidents due to a combination of:
- Overcrowded buses and ferries
- Poorly maintained vehicles
- Inadequate traffic management at ferry terminals
- Lack of safety regulations enforcement
- Bangladesh
Daulatdia is one of the country’s busiest ferry crossings, and accidents in this area are not uncommon.
Authorities have repeatedly warned commuters to exercise caution, especially during peak travel times.
Impact on Families and Communities
The tragedy has left families devastated, with children among the deceased. Local residents and relatives rushed to the site to assist in rescue efforts and identify victims.
Social workers and local authorities are coordinating support for affected families, including medical care for survivors and psychological assistance for relatives coping with sudden loss.
Government Response
Bangladesh authorities have pledged to investigate the incident thoroughly. The government called for stricter safety measures at ferry terminals and requested public cooperation to prevent future tragedies.
Officials are also reviewing protocols for bus-to-ferry transfers, aiming to reduce risks caused by overcrowding and mismanaged traffic flow near rivers.
International Perspective
Road and ferry accidents in Bangladesh frequently draw attention from global safety watchdogs and transport authorities, highlighting the urgent need for stronger safety enforcement.
This accident underscores the risks faced by commuters in countries where public transportation intersects with water transport, especially in high-density regions.
Search and Rescue Challenges
Rescue teams face multiple obstacles:
- Strong river currents complicating diving operations
- Poor visibility underwater
- Structural damage to the bus making recovery hazardous
- Bangladesh
Authorities are urging people to avoid the river area until rescue operations conclude.
Lessons and Safety Measures
This tragedy highlights the broader safety challenges in Bangladesh’s transport system. Experts recommend:
- Enhanced regulation of bus and ferry operations
- Proper training for drivers and ferry staff
- Strict enforcement of vehicle maintenance standards
- Public awareness campaigns about safe boarding procedures
- Bangladesh
Conclusion
The Padma River bus accident is a grim reminder of the ongoing risks associated with transport safety in Bangladesh.
With 24 confirmed fatalities and more passengers potentially unaccounted for, authorities continue intensive search and rescue efforts.
Families, communities, and officials face the daunting task of coping with the aftermath of this tragedy while addressing systemic safety challenges.
Read more about transport safety and ferry accidents in Bangladesh, including the latest Iran-related travel advisories.
About The Author
