Two Killed in Sherpur Pickup-Auto Rickshaw Collision

Tragedy struck Sherpur on Wednesday morning as a head-on collision between a pickup van and a CNG-operated auto rickshaw claimed the lives of two individuals, including a junior assistant presiding officer. The accident occurred at around 11:30 a.m. in the Shimultoli area of Sherpur Sadar Upazila, leaving six others injured.

The deceased have been identified as Roknuzzaman and Mahfuza Begum. Roknuzzaman, a resident of Sarishabari Upazila in Jamalpur, served as a junior instructor at Sherpur Polytechnic Institute. He was also fulfilling his duties as the assistant presiding officer at the Sherpur Government Girls’ High School during the Thirteenth National Parliamentary elections. 

Mahfuza Begum, meanwhile, was the wife of Nirab Mia from Matiapara village in Melandah Upazila, Jamalpur.

According to local police, hospital officials, and witnesses, the group of five passengers, including Roknuzzaman and Mahfuza Begum, were travelling from Jamalpur to Sherpur in a CNG auto rickshaw. Around 11:30 a.m., as they reached the vicinity of Muslihe Ummah Women’s Madrasa in Shimultoli, the auto rickshaw collided head-on with a pickup van coming from the opposite direction.

The impact of the collision left several passengers critically injured. Bystanders and local residents immediately rushed the victims to Sherpur District Sadar Hospital. Upon arrival, doctors pronounced Roknuzzaman and Mahfuza Begum dead. The remaining six injured individuals were admitted for treatment and are currently under medical supervision.

Sherpur Sadar Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge, Sohel Rana, confirmed that legal proceedings in connection with the accident are ongoing. He also urged road users to exercise caution, particularly in areas prone to high traffic and narrow roads.

The following table summarises the key details of the accident:

The accident has caused significant distress in the community, highlighting the need for stricter road safety measures and vigilance on busy routes. Residents have expressed shock and grief over the sudden loss of life, particularly of Roknuzzaman, who was actively engaged in public service during the ongoing election.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash, including the potential causes and any violations of traffic regulations. Meanwhile, the hospital continues to monitor the condition of the injured passengers, some of whom are reported to be in critical condition.

This tragic incident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of road safety and responsible driving, especially on narrow and congested roads in Sherpur.