At least 18 people have died after a bus plunged into the Padma River in central Bangladesh while attempting to board a ferry. The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon in Rajbari district, approximately 84 kilometers from Dhaka.
The bus, carrying around 40 to 50 passengers, was traveling to the capital city from the southwestern district of Kushtia following the Eid al-Fitr festival. Many passengers managed to swim to safety, but others were trapped as the vehicle sank.
Rescue operations were hampered by strong currents and rain. A rescue vessel eventually lifted the bus, and rescuers worked overnight to recover bodies. Ten women and two children were among the confirmed fatalities. It remains unclear if anyone is still missing.