Tragic Death of Child in Chokoria Swing Accident

A heartbreaking incident occurred in Chokoria, Cox’s Bazar, on Tuesday morning when a 10-year-old girl died after her scarf became entangled in a swing, causing fatal strangulation. The tragedy took place around 9:30 a.m. in the Goyalmara area of Harbang Union.

The deceased child, Akrita Jannat, was the daughter of Ziaur Rahman, a Bangladeshi expatriate living in the United Arab Emirates. She was a fourth-grade student at Goyalmara Ahmadiya Ibtedaia Madrasa, known locally for its emphasis on early childhood education.

Local residents reported that Akrita had returned home from her morning madrasa lessons and was playing on a swing in the courtyard when her scarf became caught, tightly winding around her neck. Family members rushed her to Lohagara Upazila Health Complex, but she was pronounced dead on arrival.

Akrita’s mother, Yasmin Akter (30), has been inconsolable since the accident. Witnesses said she repeatedly lost consciousness, with relatives struggling to offer comfort. Yasmin described the devastating loss, saying, “Akrita was our eldest child. Her father sent money from abroad a few days ago for Eid shopping. Yesterday, we went to Lohagara Shopping Mall to buy gifts for our children. She returned home so happy… and today, my little bird has flown away.”

She further explained, “After the pre-dawn meal, I was asleep. Akrita got up to go to madrasa on her own. On returning, she was playing on the courtyard swing. I was unaware, and now my daughter has suffered greatly.”

Mohammed Shafiul Alam, a local member of the Harbang Union Parishad representing the Goyalmara area, expressed his sorrow, saying, “Such a tragic event has occurred due to a moment of inattention. The entire community is in mourning after the child’s death.”

Summary of Akrita Jannat’s Profile

Residents have expressed deep concern over the safety of children during play and urged families to maintain close supervision. The tragedy has cast a shadow over the community, highlighting the need for increased awareness and preventive measures to protect young children.

This devastating loss has not only struck a family but has also profoundly affected the wider Chokoria community, leaving neighbours and friends grappling with grief and shock.