Speedboat capsizes in Hatiya : 28 people rescued alive, carrying extra passengers alleged
Sabbir Ibn Siddiq, Hatiya (Noakhali)
A speedboat carrying passengers capsized in Hatiya Upazila of Noakhali. The boat, which left from Chairman Ghat of Harni Union of the upazila on Monday afternoon, capsized in the Meghna River near Bou Bazar. However, thanks to the efforts of locals, all 28 passengers on the speedboat were rescued alive.
According to local sources, the passenger speedboat left Chairman Ghat for Nalchira as usual. On the way, when it reached the Meghna River area of Bou Bazar, water suddenly entered under the boat and it lost control and started sinking. When the passengers started screaming, nearby fishermen and locals immediately jumped into the river and carried out rescue operations.
One of the passengers who was rescued alive, rural doctor Faisal, said, "There were 27 passengers on the speedboat. Due to carrying extra passengers, water entered and the boat started sinking."
The driver was repeatedly requested not to pick up additional passengers, but he did not listen. He added, "Fortunately, everyone was able to swim to shore or with the help of locals. However, a major accident could have occurred."
Ashish Chandra Saha, in-charge of Nalchira Naval Police Outpost, said, "The boat met with an accident after coming to the river bank. Everyone, including the passengers and the driver, has been rescued safely. There were no casualties."
Locals complained that speedboats regularly carry extra passengers and safety rules are not followed. They drew the attention of the administration and said that quick monitoring and effective steps are needed to prevent such incidents from recurring. The administration has assured an investigation into the incident.
