A serious incident occurred in Gazipur’s Tongi area when a motorcycle was struck by an intercity train while attempting to cross a railway level crossing in violation of safety warnings and restrictions. Although the motorcycle was severely damaged in the collision, the rider, identified as 39-year-old Opus Mia, narrowly escaped death after managing to jump clear at the last moment.
The accident took place at approximately 7:30 pm on Wednesday (29 April) in the Tongi New Bazar area along the Dhaka–Tongi railway line. At the time, a Dhaka-bound intercity passenger train was passing through the crossing. According to railway personnel and witnesses, the main barrier gate was fully closed due to the approaching train. However, the motorcyclist reportedly attempted to cross via a smaller auxiliary or “pocket” gate in a bid to bypass the closure.
Eyewitnesses stated that as the motorcycle entered the railway track, the train struck it forcefully, throwing the vehicle several metres away. In a split-second reaction, the rider leapt from the motorcycle, avoiding direct impact with the train. Despite escaping with his life, he sustained minor injuries to various parts of his body.
Locals quickly rushed to the scene and transported him to the Tongi Shaheed Ahsan Ullah Master General Hospital, where he received primary medical treatment. His condition was reported as stable.
Opus Mia is the son of Saiful Islam from Podharbaid village in the Pubeil area of Gazipur. Professionally, he works as a deed writer at the Tongi Sub-Registrar’s Office.
Railway police confirmed that the crossing was closed in accordance with the signal system in place at the time of the train’s passage. They further stated that the accident occurred due to the rider’s attempt to cross despite the closure. Officers from the Tongi Railway Police Outpost arrived promptly after the incident, assisted in the rescue operation, and ensured medical attention for the injured man.
Incident Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Tongi New Bazar level crossing, Gazipur |
| Date & Time | 29 April, approximately 7:30 pm |
| Train | Intercity passenger train (Dhaka-bound) |
| Victim | Opus Mia (39) |
| Occupation | Deed writer |
| Injury Status | Minor physical injuries |
| Vehicle Condition | Motorcycle severely damaged |
| Outcome | Rider survived |
The incident has once again highlighted safety concerns at railway level crossings in the Tongi area, which remains a busy transport corridor with frequent train and road traffic movement. Local residents noted that risky attempts to cross closed gates are not uncommon and often lead to avoidable accidents.
Transport safety observers and members of the local community have emphasised the need for stricter enforcement at railway crossings. They suggest that improved monitoring, public awareness campaigns, and the development of safer alternative crossing infrastructure could help reduce the likelihood of