RAJBARI, Mar 27 (V7N) – The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has officially suspended the registration of the Sauhardya Paribahan bus that plunged into the Padma River at Daulatdia on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of at least 26 people.

Muhammad Ahidur Rahman, Assistant Director (Eng.) of BRTA Rajbari Circle, confirmed the disciplinary action on Friday. The move follows a formal letter issued on March 26 against the vehicle, identified by registration number Rajbari-B-11-0024.

The Legal Crackdown

Citing Section 24 of the Road Transport Act 2018 and Rules 46 and 47 of the Road Transport Rules 2022, the BRTA has implemented the following measures:

  • Temporary Suspension: The motor vehicle's registration is suspended effective immediately.

  • Show-Cause Notice: The owner has been ordered to appear at the BRTA Rajbari office within three working days.

  • Documentation Review: The owner must submit the registration certificate, tax token, fitness certificate, route permit, and the driver’s license for inspection.

  • Potential Permanent Cancellation: Failure to provide a satisfactory explanation for the lapse in safety will result in the permanent cancellation of the vehicle's registration and further legal proceedings against the owner.

Rescue and Investigation Status

The ill-fated Dhaka-bound bus lost control while boarding at Ferry Ghat No. 3 in Goalanda at approximately 5:30 pm on Wednesday, March 25. High-intensity rescue operations involving the Fire Service, Navy, and Coast Guard have so far recovered 26 bodies, including women, children, and the bus driver. Five passengers managed to survive the plunge with injuries.

Two separate investigation committees—one formed by the District Administration and another by BIWTA—are currently examining whether the accident was caused by a mechanical failure, reckless driving, or the risky condition of the ferry approach ramp. Copies of the BRTA suspension letter have been dispatched to the Deputy Commissioner and the Superintendent of Police to aid the ongoing criminal investigation.

END/SMA/AJ