26 dead as speedboat sinks in Padma

At least 26 people died when a speedboat sank in the Padma River near Kathalbari Ferry ghat in Shibchar upazila of Madaripur district on Monday.

The identities of the deceased could not be known yet.

The Banglabazar-bound speedboat from Shimulia Ferry Ghat capsized in the river after a collision with a sand-laden bulkhead, Mohammad Raihan, Fire Service and Civil Defence Headquarters Station Officer (Media cell), told UNB.

On information, fire service divers from Shibchar and Jajira fire stations rushed to the spot and conducted the rescue operation.

Twenty-six bodies were retrieved from the river with the help of divers from local Fire Service and Civil Defence, police and Coast Guard members, said Raihan.

He said four people injured in the accident were rescued by locals and they were taken to a local hospital.

Raihan said more divers from Barishal Fire Service and Civil defence are on the way to join the rescue operation.

He said the Shibchar UNO, police, river police and army personnel are present on the spot.