Jhalokathi, Dec 27 (V7N) — A collision between two passenger launches on the Meghna River in Chandpur, caused by dense fog, left multiple passengers dead and injured in the early hours of Thursday.

The incident occurred around 2:00 am between the Haimchar upazila and the Harina area of Chandpur. Chandpur River Police Superintendent Syed Mushfiqur Rahman confirmed the accident, saying that several casualties were reported, although the identities of the deceased could not be immediately confirmed.

Jhalokathi Superintendent of Police Mizanur Rahman said the collision took place near Harina area of Chandpur Sadar at approximately 2:00 am on Thursday, Dec 25. On Friday morning, Jhalokathi Sadar Police detained the passenger launch MV Adventure-9 along with four of its crew members from the Jhalokathi terminal in connection with the incident.

Sadarghat River Police duty officer Abdullah Al Mamun said the collision occurred due to extremely poor visibility caused by dense fog, resulting in fatalities and injuries.

According to BIWTA Deputy Director (Traffic) Babulal Baidya, the Dhaka-bound launch MV Zakir Samrat-3 had departed from Ghosherhat in Bhola and was crossing the Haimchar area shortly after 2:00 am when it collided head-on with the Barishal-bound MV Adventure-9, which had departed from Dhaka. After the collision, passengers of MV Zakir Samrat-3 were transported to Dhaka aboard MV Karnaphuli-9.

Eyewitnesses said a group of BNP leaders and activists were returning to Jhalokathi by MV Adventure-9 after attending a party rally in Dhaka. As the launch reached the Haimchar area around 2:00 am, it collided directly with the oncoming vessel. The front portion of the Jhalokathi-bound Adventure-9 was severely damaged in the impact.

As of Friday noon, the names, identities, and exact number of victims had not been officially confirmed. However, media reports published by 12:00 pm on Friday stated that at least eight people were killed in the collision.

The injured passengers are currently receiving treatment at Barishal Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital and other nearby healthcare facilities. Authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine further details and responsibility for the accident.

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