Families of Bus Tragedy Victims Demand Tk 1 Crore Compensation

Families of those killed after a passenger bus fell into the Padma River at Daulatdia Ghat have demanded Tk 1 crore in compensation for each victim.

A legal notice has been sent to the government following the incident, where a bus operated by Souhardyo Transport plunged into the river while boarding a ferry at Pontoon No. 3 in Rajbari on Wednesday (March 25) afternoon.

The notice also calls for proper medical treatment and rehabilitation of the injured.

Advocate Nawazul Asif Saad, Barrister Rafi G Rahman and Advocate Zayed Bin Naser jointly issued the public interest notice. It names the road transport and bridges minister, shipping minister, state minister for bridges, secretary of the bridges division and secretary of the shipping ministry as respondents.

The notice urges authorities to conduct an impartial and transparent investigation to determine whether negligence by ferry, transport operators or other responsible officials contributed to the incident.

According to reports, the bus, travelling on the Kumarkhali–Rajbari route, lost control around 5:15pm while boarding the ferry and fell into the river. So far, 26 bodies have been recovered.

The notice states that the government is responsible for ensuring proper treatment for the injured and providing compensation and rehabilitation, especially for those unable to return to work.

Authorities have been asked to take coordinated action within seven working days. The notice warns that legal steps will follow if no action is taken.

It also demands formation of a high-level investigation committee, publication of its report within seven working days, and legal action against those found responsible.

Advocate Nawazul Asif Saad said the notice was sent in the public interest. Due to time constraints, it was initially sent via email and will be formally delivered by post on the next working day.