A devastating road accident occurred on Thursday afternoon (12 March) at the Gunai Bridge area along the Khulna–Mongla Highway in Rampal Upazila, Bagerhat. A Bangladesh Navy bus and a passenger microbus collided head-on, resulting in at least 13 fatalities and numerous serious injuries. The scene and surrounding areas were immediately engulfed in chaos and panic following the collision.
Eyewitnesses reported that the microbus was travelling at high speed when it crashed into the naval bus. The force of the impact caused the microbus to crumple, leaving several passengers trapped inside. Four individuals were pronounced dead at the site. Many of the injured sustained severe injuries across multiple parts of their bodies.
Rescue teams from the police and Fire Service swiftly arrived at the scene to begin emergency operations. The critically injured were promptly transported to Rampal Upazila Health Complex and Khulna Medical College Hospital for treatment.
At Khulna Medical College Hospital, Dr Mehenaz Mosharraf, on duty in the emergency department, confirmed that by 6:00 pm, eight bodies had arrived. The victims included three children, three women, and two men. Additionally, one seriously injured patient remains hospitalised. Authorities have cautioned that the death toll could rise as some victims remain in critical condition.
Police investigations are ongoing to determine the precise cause of the collision. Preliminary reports indicate that excessive speed and loss of vehicle control were likely contributing factors. Local residents described widespread traffic congestion following the accident, with security forces and volunteers working tirelessly to manage the injured and restore traffic flow.
The following table summarises the casualties and their transfer locations:
| Serial | Number of Deceased | Age/Gender Details | Transfer Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 9 | 3 children, 3 women, 3 men | Khulna Medical College Hospital |
| 2 | 4 | Details not yet confirmed | Rampal Upazila Health Complex |
This tragic incident has reignited concerns over road safety, particularly regarding the regulation of both public and private vehicles travelling at high speeds. Since the beginning of the year, similar head-on collisions have increased across the Khulna division, highlighting vulnerabilities in traffic management and enforcement. Authorities suggest that the absence of proper traffic signals, speeding, and insufficient driving experience are key factors contributing to such accidents.
The collision has left a deep mark on the local community, prompting renewed calls for stringent traffic regulation, enhanced road safety measures, and more vigilant oversight of passenger vehicles. Meanwhile, local administration continues to coordinate medical care for the injured while investigating the full circumstances of the crash.