BNP activists' launch runs aground, rescue boat capsizes en route to Tarique

Nobody is injured in the boat capsize, say police and BNP activists

A launch carrying BNP activists to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's programme in Barishal has run aground on a submerged shoal, before a rescue boat sent to reach it capsized in a branch of the Meghna River.

No one was injured in the incident on Monday, police and BNP leaders said.

The incident took place around 10am in Baushia of the Upazila, said Inspector Gautam Chandra Mondal, chief of Hizla River Police Outpost.

Hizla Upazila unit Jatiotabadi Swecchasebak Dal Convenor Asaduzzaman Sajal said the launch, named Obhijan-5, was carrying activists from two jetties and heading for the city.

When the vessel reached the Old Hizla Launch Terminal, it got stuck at the shoal, he said.

An engine-powered rescue boat rushed to the scene but capsized after being overloaded with passengers, Sajal said.

The activists later reached the destination by speedboat and participated in the prime minister's event, said Sajal.

Officer Gautam said there was no major damage in the boat capsize.