A heartbreaking incident occurred today around noon at the Kaliganga River, adjacent to the old launch ghat near Balirtek Market under Manikganj Sadar Police Station, where a young man and a teenage girl drowned while bathing. According to local sources, the pair entered the river for a swim, but when they did not resurface for an extended period, a woman accompanying them raised the alarm. Nearby residents promptly jumped into the river, conducting a prolonged search. Both were eventually recovered in a semi-conscious state and rushed to the 50-bed emergency department of Harirampur Thana Hospital, where doctors pronounced them dead upon arrival. Their bodies were later returned to their respective families.
Victims’ Details
| Name | Age | Occupation | Father’s Name | Village / Union | Police Station | Relation / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akash | ~22 | Carpenter | Ajahar | Sultanpur, Balra Union | Harirampur | Maternal uncle’s son; engaged to the girl |
| Unidentified Girl | ~16 | N/A | N/A | Resident of Dhaka | N/A | Maternal cousin of Akash; visiting for Eid |
Sources revealed that the teenage girl, who was visiting Akash’s family for the Eid celebrations, initially began to drown. Although Akash was an experienced swimmer, he attempted to save her, resulting in both submerging underwater. Akash was retrieved first, while the girl was found 20–30 minutes later. Tragically, despite the rescue efforts, both succumbed to drowning.
Local residents reported that the girl had been living in Dhaka and had come to Akash’s home for the festive season. The families had arranged a marriage between the two. Eyewitnesses stated that Akash’s immediate response to save his cousin, despite knowing how to swim, underscores the suddenness and unpredictability of the accident.
Authorities from Manikganj Sadar Police Station confirmed the incident and highlighted the importance of safety while bathing in rivers. They also emphasised community vigilance, particularly for minors and inexperienced swimmers. Efforts are being made to provide support to the bereaved families, and local leaders have urged residents to exercise caution near the river, especially during festive periods when more people tend to visit water bodies.
This tragic event highlights the dangers of river bathing and the crucial need for awareness and supervision, particularly for young individuals. Rescue teams and local volunteers were praised for their swift action, although the outcome remained fatal. Authorities have pledged to enhance preventive measures in the area to avoid similar incidents in the future.