BRAHMANBARIA, 18 March — A devastating road accident on the Dhaka–Sylhet highway claimed the life of a local auto-rickshaw driver, Ashiq, 55, on Tuesday night at approximately 9:30 pm. Ashiq, a resident of Malihata Paschimpara in Budhal Union of Sadar Upazila, was widely recognised as a diligent and responsible driver who earned his livelihood by transporting passengers.
Eyewitnesses reported that Ashiq was en route to Ashuganj with passengers when a speeding covered van approached from the opposite direction and collided with his auto-rickshaw. The impact was so severe that Ashiq’s vehicle was rendered inoperative, and he died instantly at the scene.
The accident sparked outrage among local residents, who set the van ablaze in protest against the fatal incident. Police from Khatihata Highway Thana responded promptly, controlling the fire and seizing the vehicle for further investigation.
Khatihata Highway Thana Officer-in-Charge Md. Jahangir Alam confirmed that Ashiq’s body was recovered and sent to the Brahmanbaria General Hospital morgue for autopsy. The authorities are conducting legal procedures against the driver of the covered van, while investigations into the circumstances of the crash continue.
Local residents voiced concerns over the increasing frequency of road accidents along the Dhaka–Sylhet route, attributing the rise to speeding vehicles, lack of traffic regulation, and poorly enforced safety measures. Pedestrians and smaller vehicles, particularly at night, remain most at risk.
The following table summarises the key details of the incident:
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| Deceased | Ashiq (55) |
| Residence | Malihata Paschimpara, Budhal Union, Sadar Upazila |
| Accident Location | Dhaka–Sylhet Highway, Malihata area |
| Time of Accident | 18 March, 9:30 pm |
| Vehicles Involved | Auto-rickshaw and covered van |
| Police Action | Body recovered, van seized, autopsy arranged |
| Local Reaction | Residents angry, van set on fire |
Authorities have stated that additional police personnel will be deployed along the highway, alongside regular traffic management and enhanced safety warnings to prevent further incidents. Locals hope that improved road infrastructure and stricter traffic regulation will reduce such tragedies in the future.
This accident has cast a pall of grief over the community, highlighting the urgent need for safer roads. Officials have expressed condolences to Ashiq’s family and promised swift action to ensure accountability and prevent recurrence.