A traditional boat race in Ullapara, Sirajganj, turned violent on Tuesday after two competing boats collided on the Karatoya River, triggering a clash between members of the two teams. At least 10 people were reportedly injured in the incident, while both boats sank following the collision.

The incident took place on Tuesday (6 October) in the Sontola area of Salop Union, where a traditional Pansi boat race had been organised at Sontola Ghat. Large crowds gathered on both banks of the river to watch the competition, creating a festive atmosphere around the event.

According to eyewitnesses, the boats named Sontola Sonabaju Ekota Express and Bongkirat Nabashakti Fighter were competing when they moved alongside each other during the race. At one stage, the boats collided, causing both to lose balance and sink into the river.

The collision was followed by an argument between the boatmen and participants of the two teams. Tensions escalated quickly, and the two sides became involved in a physical altercation. Around 10 people from both groups were initially reported to have sustained injuries.

Organisers said the confrontation arose from the excitement and tension surrounding the competition. They said the situation was brought under control after the altercation broke out.

Boat races are a long-standing part of rural cultural and community events in Bangladesh, particularly during the post-monsoon period when rivers and waterways remain suitable for such competitions. Such events often draw large numbers of spectators, with teams competing at speed over designated stretches of river. The close proximity of competing boats can sometimes create difficult situations, particularly when several vessels converge during a race.

The incident in Ullapara, however, involved not only the collision but also a subsequent dispute between the participants. The authorities were informed after the confrontation and steps were taken to bring the situation under control.

Ullapara Police Station officer-in-charge Mehedi Hasan said both boats sank during the incident. One of them has since been recovered, while the other remains submerged in the river.

He also said several people were injured in the clash between the two sides. One of the injured people was admitted to the Ullapara Upazila Health Complex for treatment.

The condition of the other injured participants was not immediately available. Police and organisers were also monitoring the situation following the incident, while efforts to recover the remaining submerged boat were continuing.

The clash disrupted what had otherwise been a major local gathering centred on a traditional sporting event. The incident also highlighted the need for effective crowd and participant management during river-based competitions, where boats operate at speed and large numbers of spectators gather along the banks.