ছবি: ছবি: সংগৃহীত
A tragic collision between a passenger train and a battery-operated auto-rickshaw claimed the lives of five passengers and injured three others at a rail crossing in Comilla’s Burichong Upazila. The accident occurred on Tuesday morning (November 26) around 10:00 AM at the Kalikapur rail crossing in Bakshimul Union.
The train, Chattola Express, was traveling from Chattogram when it struck the auto-rickshaw, throwing the vehicle off the tracks and killing four passengers instantly. Another passenger succumbed to injuries on the way to the hospital.
Victims Identified
Burichong Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Shaheda Akhter confirmed the incident and identified the deceased as:
- Rafiq Mia, son of Asmat Ali of Bakshimul village.
- Lutfar Begum, wife of Abul Malek.
- Sanu Mia, son of Taiyab Ali.
- Soforjan Begum, wife of Ali Ashraf.
- Saju Mia, son of Monir Mia.
Eyewitness Account
Local residents reported that the Chattola Express hit the auto-rickshaw as it was crossing the tracks. The impact was so severe that the vehicle was thrown off the rail line, leading to the immediate death of four passengers. The injured were rushed to Burichong Upazila Health Complex, where one more victim succumbed to their injuries.
Police and Official Response
Burichong Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Azizul Haque stated, “The collision caused significant damage to the auto-rickshaw, leaving the victims’ bodies severely dismembered. The railway police have been informed and will handle the legal formalities.”
Rail Safety Concerns
The tragic incident underscores the ongoing issue of unregulated rail crossings in Bangladesh, where a lack of safety measures often results in fatal accidents. This latest incident is likely to renew calls for improved monitoring and infrastructural upgrades at rail crossings across the country.
Efforts are now underway to recover the remains and complete necessary legal procedures. The incident has left the local community in shock, mourning the loss of lives in a tragedy that could have been prevented with better safety protocols.
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