The death toll from boat capsize after it caught fire in Surma river in Sunamganj rose to 11 as five more bodies have been recovered on Tuesday morning.
Of the deceased, four were identified as Rokeya Begum, 40, Kohinur Mia, 12, son of Abdul Halim, Ruman Mia, 12, and Sakib, 7, sons of Kalu Mia.
Superintendent of Police in Sunamganj Harunur Rashid said 10 other deceased could not be identified as they have been burnt completely.
He said fire fighters have closed the rescue operation after 1:30pm.
“Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) rescue team has been asked to join the rescue operation,” he said.
However, the BIWTA rescue team has not arrived as of 4pm, reports this correspondent.
An engine-run boat caught fire from its engine and sank in Surma river of Chatak Upazila on Monday evening. Six bodies were recovered till 3:30am on Tuesday.
The fire fighters are conducting rescue operation. About 60 persons have been rescued so far, said the SP.
Witnesses said the silencer of the boat carrying over 150 labourers caught fire around 8:30pm. Soon the fire engulfed the entire boat. Many of the passengers jumped into the river to save themselves.
About 50 remained missing, said the witnesses.
