24 dead after `overcrowded` boat capsized in Panchagarh

At least 24 people have died after a crowded trawler capsized in the Karatoa river in Boda upazila of Panchagarh.

Sources said, the reason behind the tragic incident was overcrowding. 24 deaths had been confirmed so far, most of them women and children. Some 30 passengers of the vessel are still missing.

On information fire service and a team of civil defense rushed to the spot.

Locals said, the temple Hindu pilgrims of Boda, Panchpir, Marea and Banghari areas of upazila were going to Bodeswari temple by trawler on the occasion of Mahalaya in the afternoon. Due to passenger overload, the vessel sank in the middle of Kartoa. Some of them were able to reach the shore by swimming after capsizing.

Fire service officer Shah Jahan Ali said, the rescue operation is facing trouble due to deep water. Divers are coming from Rangpur division.

Boda police station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Sujoy Kumar said, the death toll would increase.