A passenger bus operated by Souhardo Paribahan plunged into the Padma River while attempting to board a ferry at Daulatdia Ghat in Rajbari on Wednesday afternoon, leaving at least two people dead and many others missing.
The deceased were identified as Rehena Begum, 60, and Marzina Begum, 55. Rehena hailed from the Bhabanipur area of Rajbari, while detailed information about Marzina Begum could not be known immediately.
Meanwhile, a woman named Nusrat, 29, is currently undergoing treatment. She is a medical professional by occupation.
Earlier, the accident occurred at around 5:15pm at pontoon no-3 of the Daulatdia Ferry Terminal in Goalanda Upazila, when the Dhaka-bound bus, carrying at least 40 passengers, reportedly lost control and overturned into the river.
Rescue operations began immediately, with divers from the Fire Service conducting search efforts. Additional diving teams from Dhaka, as well as units from nearby Paturia and Aricha ferry terminals, have joined the operation.
Officials confirmed that two bodies have so far been recovered and taken to Goalanda Upazila Health Complex.
Rajbari Civil Surgeon Dr SM Masud verified the fatalities.
At least 11 passengers managed to swim ashore following the incident, according to local sources.
However, many others are feared to be trapped inside the submerged bus.
The officer-in-charge of Goalanda Ghat Police Station said rescue teams are continuing intensive efforts to locate those still missing. Authorities have not yet confirmed the total number of casualties.
The incident has disrupted operations at the busy ferry terminal, prompting authorities to urge people to avoid the area as rescue work continues.
Rescue efforts are expected to continue into the night as teams search for survivors and recover those still inside the vehicle.
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