LALMOHAN, BHOLA, June 23: A truck driver was killed and a helper injured after a dilapidated iron bridge collapsed while a sand-laden truck was crossing it in Lalmohan Upazila of Bhola on Tuesday afternoon.
The accident took place around 12:30pm at the eastern end of Azhar Road in Ward No. 8 of Ramaganj Union, when the bridge over the Betua canal suddenly gave way, sending the vehicle into the water.
The deceased was identified as Naim, 25, son of Farid Mia of Chotla area under Dhali Gauranagar Union of the upazila. The injured helper, Md Al-Amin, 12, was rushed to Bhola Sadar Hospital in critical condition after initial treatment at Lalmohan Upazila Health Complex.
Eyewitnesses said they heard a loud crash as the truck was crossing the bridge. Locals rushed to the scene and found the vehicle submerged in the canal.
They rescued the driver and helper and took them to hospital, where doctors declared Naim dead.
Residents said the bridge had long been in a risky condition and had repeatedly been reported to authorities, but no effective repair or reconstruction was carried out.
Police said legal procedures are underway.
