Launch operations barred in dense fog after Meghna collision

The government has issued directives prohibiting launch operations during dense fog following a fatal collision between two passenger launches in the Meghna River in Chandpur.

The instruction was given by Shipping Ministry Adviser Brigadier General retired Dr M Sakhawat Hossain, according to an official press release issued on Friday, December 26.

The release said an eight-member investigation committee has already been formed to probe the incident and has been asked to submit its report within seven working days.

The adviser said strict legal action would be taken against those responsible. He confirmed that five staff members of the launch Adventure-9 have already been taken into police custody and further action will follow based on the investigation findings.

The ministry also directed authorities to ensure that all launches are equipped with functional fog lights and side lights. The Department of Shipping has been instructed to intensify monitoring of vessel fitness and licensing.

The collision occurred around 2:30 am on Thursday amid heavy fog when the Dhaka-bound MV Zakir Samrat-3 collided with Adventure-9 near Haimchar in the Meghna River. Adventure-9 was travelling from Dhaka to Jhalakathi at the time.
Four passengers of MV Zakir Samrat-3 were killed in the incident, while several others were injured.

Following the accident, Dr Sakhawat Hossain visited Sadarghat in the capital on Friday morning to inspect the damaged launch and met with families of the victims. He expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended condolences to the bereaved families.

The adviser said the ministry would provide immediate assistance of Tk 1.5 lakh to each deceased victim’s family and Tk 50,000 for the treatment of the injured. He also directed that the owners of both launches be summoned and assured that compensation would be ensured from the responsible owners.