Bus trapped under pontoon, doors and windows inaccessible for rescue

The passenger bus that plunged into the Padma River while boarding a ferry at Daulatdia Ghat in Rajbari has drifted under a pontoon, creating major complications in rescuing those trapped inside. Divers have reported that the bus is positioned in such a way that reaching and breaking its doors and windows is not possible.

The accident occurred around 5:15 pm on Wednesday, March 25, at the No. 3 pontoon of Daulatdia Ferry Ghat. A passenger bus of Saudha Paribahan lost control while boarding the ferry and fell directly into the river.

While local rescue efforts began immediately after the incident, the bus quickly sank and later became trapped under the pontoon, preventing divers from accessing it directly.

Rescue workers said that typically, rescuers break the doors or windows of a submerged vehicle to enter and carry out rescues. However, the structural positioning of the bus is making this impossible.

Divers reported that because the bus is lodged directly under the pontoon, water pressure and limited space are preventing them from using hammers or tools to gain entry. They are continuing rescue efforts by exploring alternative approaches.

Meanwhile, the rescue vessel Hamza has joined the operation. It has arrived at the scene and is attempting to locate and retrieve the submerged bus. Fire service divers have also come from Paturia and Aricha Ghats to participate in the rescue.

However, local residents and relatives of the missing have expressed anger that rescue efforts only began about an hour after the accident. They claimed that faster action could have reduced the loss of life.

Abdul Azizul, a passenger who was on the bus, said he managed to swim to safety, but his wife and child remain missing. He said the bus suddenly plunged into the river in a moment of panic.

Local sources said the bus had come from Kumarkhali in Kushtia and was carrying around 50 to 56 passengers, most of whom were returning to their workplaces after the Eid holidays.

Meanwhile, a local resident named Rajiv claimed that at least four bodies had been recovered and seven others sent to hospital in critical condition. However, authorities have not yet confirmed the number of casualties.

According to Daulatdia Ghat sources, the bus, submerged in the deep river, has not yet been recovered. Rescuers are continuing their efforts, but the operation has become extremely difficult due to the bus's position under the pontoon.