Bus plunges into Padma River in Bangladesh, killing 24

March 26, 2026 / 7:22 PM

Relatives of victims of a bus that plunged into the Padma River in Rajbari, Bangladesh

Sharjah 24 – Reuters: At least 24 people lost their lives after a passenger bus carrying around 40 passengers plunged into the Padma River while trying to board a ferry in Bangladesh, officials reported on Thursday.

Location and circumstances

The accident occurred on Wednesday near Daulatdia in Rajbari district, approximately 100 km (62 miles) from Dhaka. The bus lost control while approaching the ferry, overturned, and sank nearly 30 feet (9 meters) into the river, according to police and the Fire Service and Civil Defence.

Rescue operations

Rescuers recovered 22 bodies from inside the submerged bus, including six men, 11 women, and five children, Fire Service official Talha Bin Zasim said. Two additional women died after being rescued, bringing the confirmed death toll to 24.

Ongoing search and risks

Search and rescue operations involved four fire service units, 10 divers, and support from the army, police, coast guard, and local authorities. Officials warned that more passengers may still be missing.