Investigators find ‘multiple lapses’ behind 12 deaths at Cumilla level crossing

An investigation into the Mar 21 train-bus collision at Padua Bazar in Cumilla, which claimed 12 lives, has revealed widespread negligence among railway staff, bus personnel, and road construction officials.

Leading the investigation, Additional District Magistrate Mohammad Jafar Sadiq Chowdhury noted on Sunday that a broad failure of duty was evident.

He said the investigation found four gatekeepers at Padua Bazar, two at Bijoypur, the Lalmoi station master, two locomotive masters, the bus driver, and road construction staff to be negligent.

“The inquiry uncovered at least six key lapses. Several individuals and departments are evidently responsible. The committee has issued eight recommendations in its 11-page report, submitted to the district commissioner.”

The panel included BRTA Assistant Director Faruk Alam, Maynamati Crossing Highway Police chief Abdul Momin, Fire Service Assistant Director Md Iqbal Hossain, and Railway Assistant Transport Officer Asif Khan Chowdhury.

Following a passenger’s lawsuit, the Rapid Action Battalion and police have arrested three gatekeepers linked to the incident.