Probe body formed over Sadarghat launch collision

The government has formed a six-member probe committee to investigate a launch collision at Sadarghat that left two people dead on Wednesday.

The Shipping Ministry formed the 6-member committee headed by Additional Secretary Abul Islam as convener to determine the cause of the accident and identify those responsible in the accident, UNB reports.

The accident occurred on Wednesday near pontoon No. 14 when Dhaka–Ilisha (Bhola)-bound launch ‘Asha Jaoa-5’ collided with Dhaka–Daulatdia–Jashorehat route vessel ‘MV Zakir Smart-3’.

The committee has been asked to submit its report within three working days, identifying the actual cause of the accident and recommending actions against those found responsible.

The ministry has also directed the authorities concerned to ensure necessary support for the victims.

Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, the ministry conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for eternal peace of the deceased, while instructing authorities to ensure proper treatment of the injured.

At least two people were killed and two others remain missing after a launch crashed into one that was anchored at Sadarghat in the capital on Wednesday evening.

A small boat the anchored launch got caught between the two, and in the chaos several people were injured.

One of the deceased was identified as Sohel Rana, 28, son of Miraj Fakir, who also went missing in the accident.

Sohel’s wife Ruba is undergoing treatment at Dhaka Medical College and Hospital.

The route permit of MV Zakir Samrat-3 and Asha Jaoa-5 was cancelled.