Launch sinks in Padma, at least 100 missing

At least 100 persons have gone missing after a launch carrying over 150 passengers capsized in Padma river near Mawa ghat in Munshiganj on Monday morning.

Mawa Launch Capsize

The rescuers have recovered two bodies as of 1:50pm, acting police superintendent of Munshiganj Zakir Hossain told the Dhaka Tribune.

However, the sunken launch is yet to be spotted.

BIWTA Assistant Manager Abdul Alim said Pinak 6 capsized in the Padma river with 150 passengers on board around 11am.

He said 50 passengers were rescued so far.

However, Louhajang Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mohammad Khalequzzaman said the launch was carrying over 300 passengers.

Saiful Hasan Badol, deputy commissioner of Munshiganj, said 44 persons were rescued so far.

The launch was heading towards Mawa ghat from Kawrakandi, said the BIWTA official.

The divers’ team of Navy, fire service and coast guard are conducting search and rescue operation.

Source: Dhaka Tribune