5 killed as train hits microbus in Faridpur

Five people were killed and at least four others injured after a train hit a microbus at an unmanned level crossing in Faridpur Sadar Upazila today (7 January).

The accident took place at around 11:30am in the Munshibazar area of the upazila, confirmed Faridpur Fire Service and Civil Defence Station Officer Md Nazrul Islam.

Witnesses said the microbus, which was carrying 10 to 11 people, was going through the railway crossing when it was hit by Dhaka-bound train Madhumoti Express.

The train crushed the microbus and dragged it some 100-150 yards along the railway tracks. The gas cylinder of the microbus exploded after it fell into a roadside ditch.

There was no gateman at the level crossing when the incident occurred.

Talking to The Business Standard from the scene, Nazrul said that three of the microbus passengers were killed on the spot.

Two others died after being taken to Faridpur Medical College Hospital. The other injured are receiving treatment at the hospital.

Three units from Faridpur fire service station rushed to the scene and began rescue operations alongside police.

The deceased have been identified as Liton Chowdhury, his wife Fahmida Sharmin, their daughter Saju, Liton's sister-in-law Atifa Rahman, and Umme Tasruma Rintu, all from Bhuiya Bari area in Narayanganj.