Jeep plunges into river after breaking Kalurghat Bridge railing, two rescued

A local jeep lost control and went over the edge of the Kalurghat Bridge. Photo: TBS

A jeep fell into the Karnaphuli River after breaking through the railing of the Kalurghat bridge early Sunday. 

Local residents rescued two individuals from the water and sent them to a hospital. However, authorities have yet to identify the rescued victims.

The incident was confirmed by Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Sadarghat Naval Police, Ekramul Haque. 

"Upon receiving information that a vehicle had fallen into the river while crossing the Kalurghat bridge, a team of naval police was dispatched to the scene. We heard that two victims were rescued immediately after the accident and sent to a local hospital, but we are yet to trace them," said OC Ekramul.

According to Saidur Rahman, Sub-Officer of Boalkhali Fire Service Station, the jeep, locally known as a "Chander Gari," was travelling from the Boalkhali side of the bridge toward the city. 

"The vehicle broke the railing on the right side of the bridge and fell into the river. Fortunately, locals managed to rescue two passengers right away, but the vehicle was swept away by the strong current," he added.

He also confirmed that the driver and helper were the only passengers on the vehicle.

"The bridge has been under construction. Vehicles were not supposed to move on the bridge. We are trying to find out how the vehicle got onto the bridge and fell into the river," OC Ekramul said.

The Kalurghat bridge has been undergoing renovations since August last year, with railway authorities overseeing the work. The bridge, which was closed for an extended period for repairs, is currently in the final stages of renovation, including resurfacing to accommodate traffic. However, many vehicles are crossing the bridge without following the rules, leading to frequent traffic jams on both ends of the one-way bridge.

Investigations by local authorities are underway to determine the exact cause of the accident.