Tragic Bus Accident in Bangladesh Claims 24 Lives

A tragic bus accident in Bangladesh has claimed the lives of at least 24 individuals after the vehicle plunged into the Padma River while attempting to board a ferry. With several passengers still missing, rescue operations are underway, involving local fire services, coastguard divers, and military support. Eyewitnesses recount the harrowing moment the bus lost control and fell into the river. Many of the passengers were returning to Dhaka after celebrating Eid, and the incident has prompted an investigation ordered by the Prime Minister. This heartbreaking event highlights the dangers faced during transport in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 26, 2026, 13:03 IST

Bus Plunges into Padma River

Dhaka, March 26: A devastating incident occurred in Bangladesh when a bus carrying approximately 40 passengers fell into the Padma River while trying to board a ferry, resulting in at least 24 fatalities and several individuals still unaccounted for, as reported by officials on Thursday.

Local fire service representatives confirmed that 24 bodies have been retrieved so far, with rescue efforts ongoing.

Fire service official Sohel Rana informed the media that the bus was successfully lifted from the river by the salvage vessel Hamza using cranes.

Among the deceased, 22 bodies were found inside the bus, comprising 11 women, six men, and five children.

Prior to the bus being salvaged around midnight on Wednesday, divers had located the bodies of two women believed to be in their late 50s or early 60s after six hours of challenging recovery efforts in adverse weather conditions.

Rescue teams, including fire service and coastguard divers, with support from military and police personnel, are continuing their search for those still missing.

The tragic accident took place around 5:15 PM on Wednesday at the Dauladia terminal in Rajbari district when the bus fell into the river.

It is estimated that the bus was carrying around 40 passengers, many of whom were children returning to Dhaka after celebrating Eid.

According to police and eyewitness accounts, about 11 passengers managed to swim to safety or were rescued, while the majority remain missing.

Monir Hossain, the terminal's supervisor, explained that the bus lost control after being struck by a smaller ferry while approaching the pontoon, causing it to plunge into the river.

Witnesses described the horrifying moment as the bus fell into the water, expressing their helplessness.

Medical staff at Dauladia Health Complex reported that two women were brought in deceased, while another woman, who is a doctor, received medical attention.

Many passengers were reportedly from the same family, with some surviving as they stood outside the bus while their relatives were trapped inside as it sank.

Rajbari district officials stated that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has requested updates on the recovery efforts and has ordered an investigation into the incident.