Sunday, 5th April 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 20th March 2026, 11:25 AM
SHARIATPUR — A sudden storm on the Padma River in Naria upazila, Shariatpur, led to the capsizing of three cement-laden barges on Friday afternoon. Fortunately, all crew members on board managed to reach the shore safely, with no casualties reported.
According to sources from the river police and barge operators, the vessels had departed from Dhaka, carrying cement for delivery to Jhalokathi, Indurkani, and Gouranadi. Around 12:45 pm, as they navigated the Padma River near Mulfotganj Launch Ghat and Banshtala, a sudden change in weather triggered violent winds and large waves, overwhelming the barges.
In a desperate attempt to reach safety, the barge captains tried to manoeuvre their vessels to the shore. Despite their efforts, the force of the waves caused all three barges to sink. Crew members immediately abandoned ship and swam to safety.
The captains, identified as Hridoy, Shamim, and Rakib, reported that the barges were carrying approximately 6,600 bags of cement in total. “We were en route to Jhalokathi, Indurkani, and Gouranadi with cement from Dhaka,” said one captain. “The river suddenly became extremely rough. Though we tried to beach the barges, the waves were too strong, and the vessels capsized. Thankfully, we swam to safety.”
Sub-Inspector Selim Zaman of Sureshwar River Police Station confirmed the incident to Kaler Kantho. “We have verified that three barges carrying cement capsized due to the storm. Fortunately, all crew members managed to reach the shore unharmed. We are currently in contact with the barge owners, and once the weather stabilises, recovery operations will begin,” he said.
| Barge Location | Destination | Cargo (bags of cement) | Outcome | Crew Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulfotganj Launch Ghat | Jhalokathi | ~2,200 | Sank | All safe |
| Banshtala | Indurkani | ~2,200 | Sank | All safe |
| Banshtala | Gouranadi | ~2,200 | Sank | All safe |
The incident highlights the challenges faced by river transport during the unpredictable pre-monsoon season in Bangladesh. Authorities have urged boat operators to exercise caution and monitor weather updates closely to avoid similar disasters.
Currently, river police remain at the site, and preparations are underway to salvage the sunken barges once conditions permit. The owners have been informed, and an official assessment of the material loss is expected in the coming days.
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