Probe committee formed after fatal launch collision at Sadarghat

Bangladesh’s Shipping Ministry has established a six-member investigation committee to examine the circumstances surrounding a deadly collision between two passenger launches at Sadarghat in Dhaka as authorities seek to determine accountability and prevent future incidents.

The ministry confirmed on Thursday that Additional Secretary Md Abul Islam will lead the inquiry, with Assistant Secretary Md Mehedi Hasan serving as member secretary. The panel also includes representatives from key agencies involved in river transport safety and enforcement, reflecting a coordinated approach to the investigation.

The committee has been tasked with identifying the precise causes of the accident, determining responsibility, and providing recommendations. Officials have been instructed to submit their findings within three working days.

The collision took place on Wednesday near pontoon number 14 at the busy Sadarghat river terminal, one of the country’s main inland water transport hubs. The incident involved two launches operating on separate routes — “Asha Jaoa-5,” travelling between Dhaka and Ilisha in Bhola, and “MV Zakir Samrat-3,” which serves the Dhaka–Daulatdia–Jashoreghat corridor.

While details of the casualties have not been fully disclosed, the ministry described the incident as tragic and expressed condolences to the families of those affected. It also said that instructions had been issued to relevant authorities to ensure adequate medical treatment for the injured and provide necessary support to victims.

The inclusion of officials from the River Police, Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA), the Department of Shipping, and the Fire Service and Civil Defence Directorate highlights concerns over safety standards and emergency response coordination on the country’s waterways.

Sadarghat remains one of South Asia’s busiest river ports, handling thousands of passengers daily. Accidents in the area often raise broader questions about vessel management, traffic control, and adherence to safety regulations in Bangladesh’s inland water transport sector.

The findings of the committee are expected to play a key role in shaping any follow-up action by authorities, including potential regulatory or operational changes aimed at improving river transport safety.