Overburdened trawler carrying 60 sinks in Mongla River

The vessel was carrying too many passengers and sank near the banks of the river, a local official says

A trawler carrying excess passengers has sunk while attempting to cross the Mongla River in Bagerhat.

The vessel was carrying nearly 60 passengers, but initial reports suggest there were no casualties in the accident.

The incident occurred around 9:15pm on Sunday, said Nishat Tamanna, Mongla Upazila’s executive officer.

“The trawler sank as it neared the banks of the river. It was taking on too many passengers,” she said.

“An announcement regarding the suspension of trawler service was made last night. But, the trawler ignored it and was ferrying people across the river.”

About 60 passengers were on board, she said. “All of the passengers were able to reach the shore. We have not heard any reports of missing persons.”

Trawler and ferry service on the Mongla and Pasur rivers in the coastal regions has been suspended, UNO Nishat said.