Dhaka (Bangladesh): A tragic accident in central Bangladesh has claimed the lives of at least 23 people after a passenger bus plummeted into the Padma River. The vehicle, carrying approximately 50 passengers, lost control while attempting to board a ferry on Wednesday afternoon in the Rajbari district, roughly 84 kilometres (52 miles) from Dhaka.
 

Rescue operations hampered by weather

The bus was transporting commuters from the southwestern district of Kushtia to the capital as thousands return to work following the Eid ul-Fitr holidays. While many passengers managed to swim to safety immediately after the plunge, dozens remained trapped inside the submerged wreckage.

Emergency crews worked through the night under treacherous conditions. "Strong currents and heavy rains disrupted the rescue operations overnight," stated fire official Dewan Sohel Rana.

A specialist rescue vessel arrived late Wednesday to lift the bus from the riverbed, allowing divers to recover 18 bodies by Thursday morning; the toll has since risen to 23.

Casualties and ongoing search
 

According to the Fire Service and Civil Defence Department, the victims include 10 women and two children. Authorities are currently verifying the passenger manifest to determine if any individuals remain missing in the fast-flowing waters.

Fatal road and water accidents are frequent in Bangladesh, often attributed to overcrowding, poor vehicle maintenance, and lax safety standards during busy festival periods.
(With AP inputs)