Dhaka: A devastating train collision in the eastern city of Bhairab, Bangladesh, has resulted in a tragic loss of life, with at least 15 individuals confirmed dead and around 100 others sustaining injuries.
Authorities fear that the death toll may further increase as the situation unfolds.
The collision happened when a freight train collided with a passenger train heading in the opposite direction, leading to the derailment of two passenger carriages. Bhairab is situated approximately 60 kilometres (38 miles) northeast of Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh.
Government administrator Sadiqur Rahman stated, "We have recovered 15 bodies, many are injured. The death toll will rise." Rescue teams reported witnessing bodies crushed and trapped beneath overturned coaches, emphasising the catastrophic nature of the incident, reported AFP.
The accident occurred around 4:00 pm (1000 GMT) when one train inadvertently entered the same track as the other, as per Rahman's account.
Bangladesh has seen a prevalence of train accidents, often attributed to factors such as inadequate signalling, negligence, ageing railway tracks, and subpar infrastructure. This unfortunate event underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and infrastructure improvements to prevent future tragedies.