DHAKA, March 19, 2026 (BSS) – The Shipping Ministry has formed a six-member probe body to determine the causes of the casualties resulting from a collision between two launches at Sadarghat in the capital.

Ministry’s Additional Secretary Md. Abul Islam was convener of the committee while Assistant Secretary Md. Mehedi Hasan as the member secretary, said a press release of the ministry today.

Other members are: Superintendent of Police of River Police (Dhaka Zone) Abdullah Al-Mamun, Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) Director (Purchase and Store) SM Shahed Reza, Engineer and Ship Surveyor of the Department of Shipping Mohammed Ahatasanul Hoque Fakir and Assistant Director of Fire Service and Civil Defence Directorate AKM Shamsuzzoha.

The committee has been instructed to submit its report within the next three working days, identifying the actual causes of the accident and those responsible, along with recommendations.

On Wednesday, a collision occurred near pontoon number 14 at Sadarghat between the Dhaka–Ilisha (Bhola) route launch “Asha Jaoa-5” and the Dhaka–Daulatdia–Jashoreghat route launch “MV Zakir Samrat-3”.

The ministry has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident, prayed for the eternal peace of the deceased, and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

At the same time, necessary instructions have been given to the relevant departments and agencies to ensure proper treatment for the injured and to provide overall assistance to those affected.