Padma bus tragedy: Rescue operations suspended for now

Rescue operations following the bus sinking in the Padma River in Rajbari have been suspended for now, but authorities said efforts will resume if information about missing persons is received.

Faridpur Fire Service Assistant Director Md Belal Uddin provided this information on Thursday (March 26) at noon at Daulatdia Ferry Ghat No. 3.

Earlier, a Navy official announced over a loudspeaker at the scene that anyone with missing relatives should provide information, assuring that the Fire Service, Navy, and Coast Guard would continue rescue efforts.

According to the Fire Service, a total of 26 bodies have so far been recovered from the river, while eight people were rescued alive.

Talha Bin Jasim, acting officer of the Fire Service media cell, said the accident occurred around 5:20 pm on Wednesday. The bus sank to a depth of approximately 60 feet. After prolonged efforts, the vehicle was recovered at 12:38 am. There were an estimated 40 passengers on board.

He added that eight people—three men and five women—were rescued alive with the help of rescue teams and locals. However, two of the women were later declared dead at the hospital.

The bodies of 22 people were recovered from the bus. Among them were six men, 11 women, and five children—four boys and one girl.

In total, the death toll has reached 26. Of them, 23 have been identified. The Fire Service recovered 23 bodies, two rescued by locals were later declared dead at the hospital, and one was recovered by Navy divers.