12 Killed as Train Hits Bus in Cumilla; Rail Links Restored, 3 Investigation Cpmmitee Formed

At least 12 people were killed and around 20 others injured after a train collided with a passenger bus at a level crossing in Cumilla’s Sadar South upazila early Sunday (March 22).

The accident occurred at dawn in the Padua Bazar Bishwaroad area when a Chattogram-bound mail train rammed into a Mamun Paribahan bus while it was crossing the railway tracks. According to police, the speeding train struck the bus with force and dragged it nearly half a kilometre toward the Jangalya–Kachua area, leaving the vehicle completely mangled.

Initial reports confirmed seven deaths, but the toll later rose to 12. The victims include seven men, three women, and two children. Their identities were not immediately confirmed.

Emergency responders, including police, fire service personnel, army, and RAB members, carried out rescue operations. The injured were taken to Cumilla Medical College Hospital, where at least 15 received treatment and were later released. Hospital authorities confirmed that 12 bodies were sent for autopsy.

Rail communication between Chattogram and the rest of the country was suspended following the crash. A relief train from Akhaura conducted recovery operations, removing the damaged bus and the affected train. Rail services resumed around 10:00am after roughly seven-and-a-half hours of disruption.

Authorities have taken disciplinary and investigative measures. Two railway gatekeepers have been suspended for alleged negligence.

Three separate probe committees have been formed to investigate the incident. Two committees were constituted by railway authorities—a divisional and a zonal body—while the district administration of Cumilla formed a five-member committee led by the Additional District Magistrate. All committees have been asked to submit reports within 72 hours.

The Deputy Commissioner of Cumilla announced financial assistance of Tk 25,000 for each victim’s family.

Officials said further details, including the identities of the victims and the exact cause of the accident, will be confirmed after investigations are completed.