1 dead in collision between two ferries on Padma river

A pick-up van driver was dead and at least six people were injured in a collision between two ferries – Begum Rokeya and Sufia Kamal – on Shimulia-Majhikandi route in the river Padma in Shariatpur's Jajira upazila early today.

Deceased Khokon (40), hailing from Pingrakhali of Jhalakathi district, was the driver of a fish-carrying pickup van.  

At least four vehicles including the pick-up van were also damaged in the collision, reports our Munshiganj correspondent.

BIWTC Chairman Ahmad Shamim Al Razi confirmed that a four-member committee has been formed to investigate the incident.

Begum Rokeya Ferry, which was heading for Majhikandi ghat of Shariatpur from Shimulia of Munshiganj, collided head-on with Mawa-bound Sufia Kamal from Majhikandi ghat around 3:30pm, Officer-in-charge of Mawa river police outpost, confirmed to The Daily Star.

Khokon, who was on Sufia Kamal ferry, was crushed between two cars on the ferry during the collision of the two ferries.

No missing complaint was lodged till filing of this report.

BIWTC's Shimuliaghat manager (trade) Faisal Ahmed said the accident may have occurred due to strong currents in the Padma. 

After the incident, Sufia Kamal ferry has started operating. But Begum Rokeya did not start as it needs some repairs.

BIWTC chairman Ahmad Shamim Al Razi told The Daily Star that a four-member inquiry committee has been formed, which will submit its report by today.