Sadarghat launch collision: Route permits of 2 vessels cancelled, probe committees formed

Following a fatal collision between two launches at Dhaka’s Sadarghat launch terminal yesterday (18 March), the government has decided to cancel the route permits of the vessels involved and formed two separate investigation committees to identify those responsible.

During a visit to the accident site last night, State Minister for Shipping Md Razib Ahsan told reporters, “Those responsible for this tragic accident will face exemplary punishment, and the route permits of the two vessels involved have already been cancelled.”

He stated that separate investigation committees have been formed by the Ministry of Shipping and the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) to determine the cause of the accident.

Both committees have been instructed to submit their reports within three working days, he added.

Razib said, “The government is taking this matter very seriously. Those found guilty in the investigation will face the maximum legal action. No type of accident on waterways will be tolerated.”

He confirmed that all necessary measures have been taken to ensure advanced medical care for the injured.

“The government will also provide maximum support to the families of the deceased.”

The collision between the two launches yesterday left one person dead and another injured, while several others remain missing.

Shah Md Faisal Ahmed, officer-in-charge (OC) of Kotwali Police Station, told The Business Standard that a 22-year-old man, Sohel, was killed in the incident.

His body was taken to the morgue of Sir Salimullah Medical College Hospital (Mitford), the police official said.