Narrowly escaped

Staff Reporter :
On Saturday morning, tragedy struck as a Dhaka-bound launch, the Karnaphuli-3, encountered a devastating fire while navigating the River Meghna near Majhirchar area in Chandpur.

With approximately 600 passengers on board, chaos ensued as the flames engulfed the vessel, prompting desperate measures for survival.

Reports indicate that the incident occurred around 10:30 am, igniting panic among passengers who scrambled for safety as smoke billowed from the launch’s engine room.

Despite the valiant efforts of crew members, the fire raged uncontrollably, necessitating immediate action to prevent further catastrophe.

Fortunately, the timely intervention of another launch, the Karnaphuli-14, played a crucial role in the rescue operation.

Responding swiftly to the distress call, it arrived at the scene to assist in evacuating passengers from the stricken vessel.

Subsequently, the Karnaphuli-3 was anchored at Abal Beel, a nearby char, allowing for the safe disembarkation of passengers.

Rais Uddin Sumon, Assistant Master of the ill-fated launch, provided insights into the harrowing ordeal, recounting the sudden onset of the fire and the subsequent challenges faced in containing it.

Despite their efforts, the inferno continued to spread, engulfing the engine room and threatening the safety of all on board.

In the midst of the chaos, authorities were alerted, with the National Emergency Service 999 and the Coast Guard summoned to provide assistance.

Additional District Magistrate Alamgir Hossain, representing the Bhola District Commissioner, affirmed the administration’s response to the crisis, coordinating efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers.

While the precise cause of the fire remains under investigation, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks associated with maritime travel.