2 missing as cargo ship capsizes after hitting Rupsha railway bridge

At least two people went missing when a fertilizer-laden cargo ship capsized after colliding with the pillar of the railway bridge built over Rupsha River in Khulna.

The incident took place on Sunday around 11:30am. 

The two missing are Kalam, the ship's cook, and Shakayat, the greaser.

Nurul Islam Sheikh, inspector in charge of Rupsha Naval Police outpost confirmed the incident to Dhaka Tribune.

Three separate teams of Naval Police, Rupsha Police station and Coast Guard have started a search operation on the spot. 

The location of the cargo is yet to be identified due to the tide in the river. The two missing people have not been found yet.

Rajib, in charge of the cargo engine, said: “The engine suddenly broke down. As a result, the ship lost control and collided with the pillar of the bridge.”

“There were 13 people on board. Although 11 were able to swim ashore,” he added.

Master of "TLN-1" cargo ship Shahidullah said: “The ship was going to Nawapara with 1,140 tons of TSP fertilizer from Herbaria in Mongla port.”