At least 15 people have died and multiple others have been left injured after a horrific truck crash in central Bangladesh. The vehicle, carrying iron rods and extra passengers, overturned on a major highway early Monday morning, according to local police.
The accident occurred around 5 a.m. in the Soratoil area of Tangail district, approximately 83 kilometers (52 miles) northwest of the capital, Dhaka. Police chief Fuad Hossain confirmed that the driver lost control, causing the truck to overturn. All 15 victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while 10 others sustained injuries.
The truck was transporting hitchhiking passengers from Dhaka to the northern region as many vacationers began traveling ahead of the Islamic festival Eid al-Adha, which falls on Thursday. Hossain noted that most of the deceased and injured were day laborers heading to join their families for the celebration.
Details of the Crash
The incident took place on the Dhaka-Tangail-Jamuna Bridge highway in the Jogarchar area. Eyewitnesses reported that the truck was on its side after the crash, though it did not appear to have sustained severe damage. The identities of the victims, many of whom were crushed under the iron rods and wheels, could not be immediately confirmed.
Rescue Efforts
Local residents rushed to the scene after hearing the noise and began rescuing trapped passengers. Witnesses told television stations that they worked quickly to pull people from the wreckage before emergency services arrived.
Road Safety Concerns
Road accidents are a persistent problem in Bangladesh, a nation of over 170 million people. Thousands die each year due to lax enforcement of traffic rules, poor road conditions, and unskilled driving. This tragedy highlights the ongoing risks faced by travelers, especially during holiday periods when overcrowding is common.
This is a breaking news story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
