An investigation committee has identified the negligence of the lessee and incompetence of the boatman, among other reasons, for the tragic boat capsize at Auliar Ghat in Panchagarh’s Boda upazila that killed at least 69 people on September 25.
Deputy Commissioner Md Zahurul Islam confirmed the matter yesterday on Monday afternoon, adding that the report was sent to the authorities concerned for further action.
The probe body also blamed defects in the boat, excess passengers, lack of awareness, religious prejudice and religious sentiments for the fatalities.
Additional District Magistrate Dipankar Roy, head of the investigation committee, said: "We sought time to submit the report since we had to take care of the rescue work. Finally, we submitted the report to the deputy commissioner on Sunday.”
The district administration formed the five-member probe committee soon after the incident. Although they were given three days to submit the report within three days, the time was later extended by another three working days.