Brahmanbaria Van Crushes Rickshaw Driver

A tragic road accident occurred in the Malihata area of Brahmanbaria on Tuesday (17 March) at approximately 9:30 pm, resulting in the death of a CNG auto-rickshaw driver. The victim, Ashiq (55), was reportedly crushed by a covered van while travelling on the Dhaka–Sylhet highway.

Ashiq, a resident of Malihata West Para village in Budhal Union, Sadar Upazila, was the son of Ira Mia. Local sources reported that Ashiq was transporting passengers towards Ashuganj when a covered van approaching from the opposite direction collided with his auto-rickshaw. The impact was severe, and Ashiq was declared dead at the scene.

Eyewitnesses stated that enraged locals set the van on fire immediately after the collision. Law enforcement officials promptly arrived, controlled the blaze, and subsequently seized the vehicle, taking it to the local police station for investigation.

Officer-in-Charge Jahangir Alam of Khatihata Highway Police stated, “The deceased’s body was recovered and, following a preliminary investigation, sent to Brahmanbaria General Hospital morgue for autopsy. Legal proceedings will follow in accordance with the law.”

The accident highlights ongoing safety concerns on the Dhaka–Sylhet highway, particularly in areas with high traffic density. Heavy vehicles, including vans, frequently traverse the route, often creating hazardous conditions for smaller vehicles such as auto-rickshaws. Local authorities have emphasised the urgent need for stricter traffic regulation, driver awareness, and the enforcement of speed limits to prevent similar incidents.

A summary of the accident is presented in the table below:

Residents have called for enhanced safety measures, including increased traffic monitoring, speed control, and public awareness campaigns. They noted that frequent congestion and inadequate road safety signage contribute to the high risk of collisions in the area.

This incident underscores the urgent need for coordinated road safety initiatives by both traffic authorities and the community. Authorities have assured that a thorough investigation will be conducted, and appropriate action will be taken against those responsible.

The local community mourns the loss of Ashiq, highlighting once again the critical importance of careful driving and strict adherence to traffic regulations on Bangladesh’s highways.