DHAKA: At least 24 people were killed and dozens were missing after a boat packed with Hindu devotees sank in Bangladesh, in worst waterways disaster to hit country in more than a year.

Bodies recovered so far included 12 women and eight children, said Jahurul Islam district administrator of northern Panchagarh where accident occurred. “Rescue operation for those missing is ongoing,” he said. Ferry was taking devotees to a Hindu temple.

Islam said he did not know exact number of people missing, but passengers said more than 70 people had been on board. Police said some 30 people were still missing while some of passengers managed to swim ashore.

Hundreds of people die each year in ferry accidents in Bangladesh, a low-lying country that has extensive inland waterways and lax safety standards.

Published in The Daily National Courier, September, 26 2022

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