PBSTU deputy director dies in Jhalakathi road crash

A deputy director of Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PBSTU) was killed in a road accident at Nalchity upazila in Jhalakathi district on Friday night.

The accident took place around midnight at Dapdapia Zero Point on the Barishal-Patuakhali Highway under the upazila.

The deceased, Mohammad Abu Hanif, 46, was son of Amjad Ali Mridha and a resident of Machuakhali village in Betagi Sankipur union under Dasmina upazila. He served as a deputy director of Physical Education Department at PBSTU and general secretary of Patuakhali District Rover Scouts and a key member of the Dumki Upazila Sports Association.

Citing locals, Nalchity Police Station officer-in-charge Md. Abdus Salam said, Hanif was traveling from Patuakhali to Barishal on his motorcycle. On the way, Hanif's motorcycle collided with the back of a stationary truck loaded with wood. The collision resulted in his immediate death at the scene.  

"He was wearing a helmet but a mobile phone was found inside the helmet, suggesting he might have been on a call while riding," the OC said.  

Dumki Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Shaheen Mahmud expressed his grief, saying, "Hanif left my office around 11:06 PM after coordinating a night football tournament. This loss is deeply saddening.�  

PBSTU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Kazi Rafiqul Islam, and PBSTU Deputy Registrar Dr. Aminul Islam Tito conveyed their condolences to the bereaved family, acknowledging Hanif�s contributions to education and community service.