Midnight Collision at Comilla Rail Crossing Kills 12

A catastrophic collision occurred at a rail crossing in Comilla, where a passenger bus was struck by an oncoming train in the early hours of Saturday, leaving at least 12 people dead and 10 others injured.

According to Abdul Momin, Officer-in-Charge of Moynamati Highway Police Station, the incident took place at 2:55 AM at the Paduar Bazar crossing in Comilla Sadar South Upazila, along the Dhaka–Chittagong Highway. The officer confirmed the fatalities and said that emergency responders rushed the injured to nearby hospitals.

The train involved was the Dhaka Mail, travelling from Chittagong to Dhaka, while the bus, operated by Mamun Special Transport, was en route from Chuadanga to Laxmipur. Eyewitnesses reported that the bus attempted to cross the railway line when it was hit by the train. The force of the impact caused the bus to be mangled and dragged approximately half a kilometre along the tracks.

The victims comprised seven adult men, three women, and two children, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the tragedy. The injured have been admitted to multiple hospitals in Comilla, with several reported to be in critical condition.

Rescue teams, including police and fire service personnel, worked throughout the night to extricate the bus from the tracks and recover the victims. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the collision, with authorities noting that limited lighting and lack of proper signalling at the crossing may have contributed to the disaster.

Below is a summary of casualties and injuries:

Local authorities have stated that Paduar Bazar rail crossing has a history of accidents, especially during night hours. Measures are being considered to strengthen lighting, install advanced warning signals, and enhance overall safety for both road and rail traffic.

This tragic incident is among the deadliest rail-related accidents in Comilla in recent years. Officials have cautioned that the number of casualties could rise as the condition of the critically injured passengers is monitored. The rail and transport authorities are coordinating with local administration to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The event underscores the urgent need for stricter safety protocols at busy railway crossings, particularly along the heavily trafficked Dhaka–Chittagong corridor.