At the Paduar Bazar railway crossing in Sadar South, Comilla, a catastrophic collision between a passenger bus and a mail train has claimed the lives of 12 people. At least 15 others sustained injuries and were admitted to Comilla Medical College Hospital and several other nearby medical facilities. The information was confirmed by Officer-in-Charge Md. Abdul Momin of the Maynamati Highway Police.

According to reports, the tragic incident occurred at approximately 2:55 a.m. on Saturday, 21 March, when a Mamun Transport bus travelling from Chapainawabganj to Noakhali entered the Paduar Bazar railway crossing. At that moment, a mail train en route from Chattogram to Dhaka collided with the bus. Twelve people died instantly at the scene.

Among the deceased were seven men, two women, and three children. Particularly heart-rending is the loss suffered by Laizu Akter, 26, who perished alongside her two young daughters, Khadija Akter, 6, and Morium Akter, 4. They hailed from Maheshpur, Jhinaidah.

Identified Victims

Following the accident, relatives of the deceased gathered outside the morgue, awaiting the bodies of their loved ones. Authorities have indicated that several of the injured are in critical condition. Preliminary investigations suggest that the absence of adequate safety measures and reduced vigilance at the railway crossing contributed to the collision.

The tragedy has cast a shadow of grief across the country. Local administration and railway authorities have mobilised emergency support for the injured and the families of the deceased. They have urged for stricter safety enforcement at railway crossings and for increased caution in bus and train operations.

The incident has sparked widespread coverage on social and mainstream media, with the public expressing condolences for the victims and wishing for the speedy recovery of the injured. Authorities have assured that a full investigation will be conducted to prevent future occurrences.