Bangladesh: At least 16 dead as bus carrying 40 plunges into Padma River

The incident occurred near a busy ferry terminal, where the vehicle had reportedly been waiting to board a ferry. 

Authorities confirmed that 11 passengers managed to swim to safety following the crash, while several others remain missing.

Officials said the bus, operated by Showhardo Poribohon, reached the Daulatdia ferry ghat shortly after 5:00 pm local time.

After missing an earlier ferry to Paturia, it was waiting for the next vessel when a small utility ferry, identified as Hasna Hena, struck the pontoon with force.

The impact caused the bus to fall into the river. 

Witnesses described the incident as sudden and devastating, with little time for intervention.

Medical authorities confirmed that multiple victims were brought to nearby health facilities.

Among the survivors was a woman doctor from a hospital in Dhaka, who received treatment after escaping the sinking vehicle.

Photo: Video-grab from X

Emergency response teams launched an extensive search and rescue operation shortly after the accident. 

Divers were deployed to locate those feared trapped inside the submerged bus.

Officials stated that specialised diving teams had been dispatched from the capital, Dhaka, to assist in the search.

A rescue vessel was also brought to the scene, and authorities later recovered the bus from the river late on Wednesday night.

Photo: Video-grab from X

The operation involved coordinated efforts by the police, army, naval police, and fire service.

Rescue personnel indicated that the number of casualties could increase, as reports suggest that at least 40 passengers were on board at the time of the accident. 

Authorities continue to search inside the bus and in the river for those still unaccounted for.