A passenger bus overturned in Comilla late on Wednesday evening after the driver reportedly lost control, sparking fears of multiple casualties. The vehicle, operated by Ekushay Paribahan, was travelling along the Dhaka–Chattogram Highway when the incident occurred.
The accident took place at approximately 11:20 pm in the Kabila area of Burichang Upazila, a stretch of road notorious for congestion and traffic mishaps. According to eyewitnesses, the bus, carrying numerous passengers returning home, suddenly swerved before tipping onto its side. Several passengers were reportedly trapped inside the vehicle following the overturn.
Confirming the incident, Officer-in-Charge A. Momin of the Maynamati Highway Police Station told Dhaka Post: “The Ekushay Paribahan bus lost control on the highway and overturned. Police and fire service personnel are en route to the scene to provide assistance. Further details will be shared once the situation is under control.”
Emergency services, including both police and fire brigade teams, were dispatched immediately. Local residents also rushed to the site to assist in evacuating injured passengers, providing first aid and transporting some victims to nearby hospitals. The highway was temporarily disrupted as rescue efforts were underway.
Preliminary Details of the Comilla Bus Accident
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | 18 March, 11:20 pm |
| Location | Kabila, Burichang Upazila, Comilla |
| Bus Operator | Ekushay Paribahan |
| Route | Dhaka → Chattogram |
| Cause | Loss of control (under investigation) |
| Response | Police and fire service en route |
| Casualties | Multiple injuries suspected; exact numbers pending |
| Action Taken | Rescue and first aid underway; investigation ongoing |
While official casualty numbers have not yet been released, several passengers are believed to have sustained serious injuries. Local hospitals have been placed on alert to accommodate the influx of patients, and traffic authorities urged motorists to exercise caution along the busy intercity route.
Highway officials highlighted that accidents on this route often stem from overspeeding, vehicle malfunctions, or driver fatigue, risks that intensify during peak travel periods such as the Eid holidays, when buses operate at full capacity. Authorities stressed the importance of stricter safety measures, including regular vehicle inspections, driver training, and enforcement of traffic regulations, to prevent similar incidents in the future.
An official investigation is underway to determine the precise cause of the accident, including whether road conditions, mechanical failure, or driver error contributed. A detailed report is expected after rescue operations conclude and passenger statements are collected.