A serious road accident in southern Bangladesh has triggered widespread concern after a goods-laden truck lost control and plunged into the Karnaphuli River while attempting to board a ferry near the Kalurghat Bridge area in the Boalkhali section of Chattogram. The incident occurred at approximately 9:30 pm on Thursday (2 April), sending shockwaves through the riverside community and prompting an urgent but largely unsuccessful rescue operation overnight.
According to eyewitness accounts, the truck was approaching the ferry terminal when it suddenly lost balance while manoeuvring onto the loading area. Within seconds, the vehicle veered off course and plunged into the river, sinking rapidly due to the strong current and depth at the site. The chaotic scene unfolded in moments, leaving little opportunity for immediate rescue.
Shortly after the accident, one individual believed to be associated with the truck jumped into the river from the vehicle. He was rescued in a critically injured condition by locals present at the scene. He was first taken to Boalkhali Upazila Health Complex and later transferred to Chittagong Medical College Hospital as his condition deteriorated. Medical officials have described his condition as serious and under close observation.
Eyewitnesses and local residents identified the injured man as the truck driver, Md Osman, originally from Ukhia in Cox’s Bazar. He had reportedly been living in a rented residence in the Kalamiya Bazar area under Bakalia Police Station in Chattogram.
There were also unconfirmed reports from local sources suggesting that another person might have been inside or near the vehicle at the time of the accident. However, fire service officials have stated that this information has not yet been verified. A rescue team from the Fire Service and Civil Defence launched an immediate search operation, but by 11:30 pm no trace of the vehicle or any additional missing person had been found.
Rescue officials confirmed that the truck had fully submerged into the river. Due to poor visibility and strong currents, the search operation was suspended overnight with plans to resume early the following morning using additional equipment and divers.
Incident Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Kalurghat Bridge area, Boalkhali, Chattogram |
| Water body | Karnaphuli River |
| Time of accident | 2 April, around 9:30 pm |
| Vehicle involved | Goods truck |
| Injured | 1 (driver Md Osman) |
| Missing persons | 1 (unconfirmed, under investigation) |
| Rescue operation | Fire Service search ongoing |
| Current status | Truck submerged; search to resume |
The incident has reignited concerns over safety standards at ferry ghats, particularly regarding vehicle movement during night hours. Locals have pointed out that inadequate lighting, weak traffic control, and congested loading areas significantly increase the risk of such accidents.
Authorities and rescue teams continue to monitor the situation closely as efforts persist to confirm whether anyone else was involved and to recover the submerged vehicle.