Narsingdi train crash 'unusual incident'
Communications Minister Syed Abul Hossain yesterday termed Wednesday's train accident in Narsingdi an 'unusual incident' and said it is difficult to say whether it was an accident or sabotage.
Referring to various casualty figures in the media, the minister said seven people were killed and 29 others injured in the accident.
Of the injured, 23 people were brought to Dhaka for better treatment and the rest are being treated at local hospitals in Narsingdi, he added.
“I saw and heard about many train accidents both at home and abroad. Accidents may occur.
“But it is unusual that a passenger coach will ride on another. I never saw such a train accident,” said the minister in a statement at parliament.
Citing formation of a probe body, he said, “Proper steps will be taken based on the probe body's findings.”
Bangladesh Railway formed a four-member committee to probe the accident. Headed by railway's Chief Engineer (East Zone) Yusuf Ali Mridha, the committee has been asked to come up with a report within the next 48 hours.
The minister, who rushed to the spot on Wednesday, said many journalists asked me whether it was an accident or sabotage.
“But I could not answer their questions since the accident was unusual. I will inform the nation in detail through parliament on receiving the probe report.”
He assured of providing financial compensation to the deceased, injured and others affected, according to railway laws.
Besides, he urged the prime minister to see if additional compensation can be given to the victims.
Earlier, Narsingdi-3 AL lawmaker Zahirul Haque Mohan, who rushed to the spot with the communications minister, raised the issue in parliament.
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