On Wednesday, 18 March 2026, at approximately 2:30 pm, seven carriages of the Nilshagar Express derailed near Tilakpur in Santahar, Bogura, while en route from Dhaka to Nilphamari. The incident has resulted in a complete suspension of rail services between the capital and northern Bangladesh. Railway authorities immediately launched emergency operations to remove the derailed carriages and restore track functionality.
According to officials, no irregular signals or track faults were reported prior to the derailment. Preliminary assessments suggest that a section of the track may have been unstable, contributing to the accident. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported; however, the exact number of injured passengers remains uncertain. Those requiring medical attention have been transported to nearby hospitals.
Local railway personnel confirmed that emergency response teams were dispatched immediately. Specialized units are currently engaged in lifting the carriages, repairing the track, and ensuring the safe resumption of train services. Authorities anticipate that rail connectivity between Dhaka and northern districts could be restored within a few hours, provided operations proceed smoothly.
A summary of the incident is presented below:
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | 18 March 2026 |
| Time of Incident | 2:30 pm |
| Location | Tilakpur, Santahar, Bogura |
| Train Name | Nilshagar Express |
| Number of Derailed Carriages | 7 |
| Fatalities | 0 |
| Injuries | Unknown (initial hospitalisation) |
| Service Status | Dhaka–Northern Bangladesh rail suspended |
The railway has issued urgent advisories for passengers, recommending alternative routes or bus services. Updates are being provided through station announcements and social media channels. During ongoing restoration work, no trains are permitted to operate on the affected stretch in the opposite direction.
Authorities indicated that recent rainfall combined with continuous heat from the previous night to early morning may have affected track stability. A detailed investigation into soil conditions and the precise cause of the derailment is underway.
In response to this incident, railway officials have pledged to strengthen future monitoring and safety measures, ensuring the prevention of similar accidents. Passengers are urged to remain patient and cooperative as restoration efforts continue.