In a tragic accident in Rajbari district, Bangladesh, a passenger bus plunged into the Padma River, leaving 24 dead.
According to international news agencies, the incident occurred on Wednesday near Dohaltia, approximately 100 kilometers from Dhaka. The bus was heading to board a ferry when the driver suddenly lost control, causing the vehicle to fall into the river.
Rescue officials said the bus was carrying 40 passengers. Fire service divers recovered 22 bodies from inside the submerged bus, including five children, 11 women, and six men. Two additional women were rescued and taken to a hospital but later succumbed to their injuries. The bus reportedly sank to a depth of about nine meters (30 feet).
Eyewitnesses reported that the bus had been waiting to board the ferry when it fell into the river. Some passengers managed to escape, but many remained trapped inside.
Videos circulating on social media show the bus tipping over into the river while passengers scream and try to swim to safety. Locals are seen using long scarves and ropes to pull people out of the water.
The rescue operation involves four fire service units, 10 divers, as well as the army, police, coast guard, and local authorities. Officials have expressed concern that more passengers may still be missing.
