5 killed, 5 missing as floating bridge capsizes in Jamalpur

Five people, including a brother and sister, have died after a floating bridge made of drums capsized in the Brahmaputra River in Jamalpur. At least five others remain missing.The accident occurred on Saturday, Eid day, in front of Dewanganj Model Police Station.

The deceased are Khadija, 12, and her brother Abdul Motaleb, 6, children of Sher Ali from Jhalurchar area; Mayamoni, 10, daughter of Joynal Mia from Dakatiapara; Abir, 16, from Gamaria; and Rihad, 8, from Balugram.

Witnesses said the municipal authorities built the temporary floating bridge using drums to facilitate travel on the Brahmaputra River. Excessive pressure from crowds of people out on Eid day caused the bridge to suddenly capsize in the afternoon, plunging many into the water. While most swam to shore, several went missing.

Fire service personnel recovered five bodies in rescue operations. Search operations for the missing are ongoing, and the death toll may rise.

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister of State and MP for Jamalpur-1 constituency, M Rashiduzzaman Millat, visited the scene.

Dewanganj Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Dr Ahsan Habib said five children drowned and died before being brought to hospital. One injured person has been treated.

Dewanganj Fire Service Station In-Charge Mobin Khan said bodies have been recovered from the scene, and search operations for the missing are ongoing.

Dewanganj Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Mansur Ahammed said the army, fire service and police are working jointly to rescue the missing.