Govt provides financial aid to victims’ families

The government has provided financial assistance to the families of two victims who lost their lives in the tragic launch accident at Sadarghat while traveling to Barishal during Eid-ul-Fitr.

The assistance was handed over on Friday morning at a ceremony held in Mehendiganj Upazila of Barishal. State Minister for Shipping Md. Rajib Ahsan, presented the financial aid cheques to the family members of the deceased, Sohail and Miraj, both residents of Mehendiganj.

Officials at the event said that the Trustee Board of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) provided financial assistance of Tk 500,000 to each family. They also announced that the two affected families would receive an additional Tk 2.5 million each in financial support in phases.

While handing over the cheques, the State Minister expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of the government's continued support.

“The government is working tirelessly to ensure the safety of passengers on waterways. Necessary measures will continue to be taken to prevent such accidents in the future,” he said.

He further noted that standing beside families affected by such tragedies is a responsibility of the state. According to the minister, the government will continue providing necessary assistance to help ensure the financial and social security of the victims’ families.

Senior officials of BIWTA, local elected representatives, political leaders, and other distinguished guests attended the ceremony.

The Sadarghat launch accident, which occurred during the Eid-ul-Fitr travel rush, resulted in casualties and drew nationwide attention. The incident reignited concerns over passenger safety and operational standards in Bangladesh’s inland water transport sector.