Road Transport and Bridges, Shipping and Railways Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam-File Photo

DHAKA, Mar 26, 2026 (BSS) - Road Transport and Bridges, Shipping and Railways Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam today expressed deep shock over casualties occurred when a bus carrying more than 50 passengers plugged into the Padma River while boarding a ferry at Daulatdia Ghat in Rajbari.

In a condolence message, he said such a heartbreaking accident was very painful for the nation.

Noting that rescue dive was started as soon as possible after the accident, the minister said the rescue ship 'Hamza' of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) and the diving team were relentlessly carrying out the rescue operation.

In addition, he said, all relevant entities, including the Fire Service, BIWTC, Bangladesh Army, Police, Naval Police and local district administration, were participating in the rescue operation in a coordinated manner.

Rabiul said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman was monitoring the rescue operation in this accident round the clock and gave instructions to complete the operation as soon as possible.

The minister further said other necessary initiatives have already been taken, including the formation of a high-level investigation committee to uncover the reason behind the accident.

Those responsible will be brought under the law and given exemplary punishment, he said.

He prayed for the forgiveness of the departed souls of the deceased and expressed deep condolences and sympathy to the bereaved families.

At the same time, he directed all the authorities concerned to provide all-out support to provide better treatment to the injured.

He assured the victims’ families of the maximum cooperation from the government.