At least 19 passengers were injured when a bus overturned in the Sapchari area of Rangamati on Thursday at around 11:30 am. One critically injured passenger was sent to Chattogram for advanced treatment, while 12 others were admitted to Rangamati General Hospital.

The passenger sent to Chattogram was identified as Tuhin Chakma (26). Those admitted to the hospital include Romel Chakma (24), Antara Chakma (24), Tuyel Chakma, Sobinoy Chakma, Dayarani Chakma (35), Sucharita Chakma, Ripon Chakma (34), Shuvadebi Chakma (20), Bipin Chakma (26), and Shefalika Chakma (55).

Additionally, Bhuventu Chakma (19), Suyentu Chakma (28), Bitna Chakma (26), Rip Rip Chakma (7 months), Khokon Chakma (27), Shuvo Chakma, Joya Chakma (22), and Forsa Chakma received outpatient treatment. All the victims are residents of various villages in Naniarchar Upazila.

The bus was headed to Chattogram from Naniarchar. Passengers said they were returning to work at various garment factories in Chattogram following the Eid holidays. The driver reportedly lost control after the vehicle’s brakes failed, causing the bus to overturn. There were approximately 40 to 45 passengers on board at the time of the accident.

Local residents immediately began rescue operations and transported the injured to the hospital. Fire Service and police personnel later joined the efforts.

Saiful Islam Shakil, Executive President of the Rangamati-Chattogram Motor Owners Association, stated that the association is providing all necessary assistance for the treatment of the injured.

Dr Shawkat Akbar Khan, Residential Physician at Rangamati General Hospital, confirmed that 19 people were brought to the hospital following the accident. He noted that several passengers remain under special observation due to the severity of their injuries.

Police have initiated the process of recovering the overturned bus.