Smiling Farewell, Dreams End in Tragic Road Accident

The village of Mosjidia in Khaiyachhara Union, Mirsharai, is enveloped in sorrow following the untimely death of promising maritime trainee Nafiz Ahmed, aged 20. Known for his bright mind and determination, Nafiz had harboured the dream of a life at sea since childhood. To pursue this ambition, he had enrolled at the National Maritime Institute in Madaripur and was preparing to join a vessel soon as a trainee engineer.

Tragedy struck on Thursday morning when a bus carrying Nafiz and other students to the institute collided with a truck on the Chittagong route. The accident claimed the lives of three young passengers, including Nafiz. The others who perished were 19-year-old Sabitun Nahar, daughter of Abdul Helal from Chandgaon, Chittagong, and 21-year-old Mintu Mia, son of the late businessman from Katlamari, Gaibandha. Additionally, five to six passengers sustained injuries and were admitted to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Nafiz’s father, Nurul Alam, struggled to contain his grief while speaking about his son:
“He was extraordinarily intelligent. He achieved A+ grades in all subjects in his secondary examinations. His love for maritime life was unmatched. We were already preparing his passport. He came home on 29 December, spent a short holiday, and left smiling. Yet, that morning, he did not return alive—he returned in a coffin.”

Nafiz’s academic journey reflected his dedication and promise. After completing his studies at a polytechnic institute in Chittagong, he joined the National Maritime Institute on 25 September, bringing immense joy to his family.

Yesterday morning at 11 am, the local community gathered in deep mourning at his family home and surrounding areas to pay their respects. Following the Jumu’ah prayers, Nafiz was laid to rest in the family graveyard amidst tears and prayers.

Following the incident, Nafiz’s father-in-law, Mobarak Hossain, filed a police report. Borhan Uddin, Sub-Inspector at Zorarganj Highway Police Station, confirmed:
“The bus and truck involved in the accident have been seized. Both drivers fled the scene. The investigation is ongoing.”

The following table summarises the victims of the accident:

This tragic accident is a stark reminder of the fragility of young lives and the critical importance of road safety. The community mourns the loss of Nafiz, whose potential and dreams were abruptly cut short, leaving an irreplaceable void in the lives of his family and friends.