Six years have passed since capsizing of the launch ‘Pinak-6’, that sank in the Padma River in Lohajang of Munshiganj, claiming over 100 lives.
The double-decker vessel, which was on its way to Mawa from Kawrakandi, was carrying more than 200 passengers against a capacity of 85. It sank in choppy waters and strong winds in the mighty river around 11 on August 4, 2014.
As per the government information, 49 bodies were recovered from the Meghna and Padma Rivers in different districts and some 53 people remained missing.
Even though six years have elapsed since the tragedy, punishment is yet to be dished out to those who are responsible for the incident, frustrating the families of the victims.
Although families of some identified victims were immediately given some compensation money, many families were left helpless for the last six years since they lost the sole earning person in the family.
Following the accident, two cases were filed with Munshiganj's Lohajang police station and Marine Court. Although the accused were initially arrested in those cases, they are currently enjoying freedom being out on bail.
On a visit to victim’s families of Pinak-6 tragedy, this correspondent found them still mourning and a grim atmosphere surrounded their homes on this day.
Shibchar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Asaduzzaman said that strict measures have been taken since the Pinak-6 tragedy. “During the rainy season, all concerned are instructed to ensure the plying of launch while maintaining maximum safety measures to avoid any risks.”
Madaripur Deputy Commissioner Rahima Khatun said: “I have taken necessary such measures at the Kathalbari Ghat so that passengers cannot board launches over the capacity. We have also made provision to penalize launches for taking extra passengers and our administration is always active, especially before and after Eid.”
