Much uproar has been sparked off by the sinking of Pinak-6 motor launch near Mawa Ghat recently. The media dealt with the tragic incident quite seriously. The launch sank in the Padma river with over 200 passengers. Its capacity was around ninety passengers.
The said deadly accident brings to our focus another topic --- lifts or elevators that operate at commercial complexes and high-rise offices and apartments. The lifts clearly indicate the maximum number of passengers they can carry. In the event more passengers board a lift, a warning signal or beep is given. Similarly, the motor launches can easily install such a device, like an alarm bell, a red-light signal, or a siren that will start operating the moment the vessels are overloaded. I am sure after hearing the warning, none will dare to board such an overloaded launch.
The owner of the Pinak-6 launch has been arrested. But like him, many other relevant persons and authorities are also responsible for the accident. Their gross negligence in duty, irregularities and malpractices should also be brought to the fore. They also need to be identified. Moreover, the authorities of BIWTA (Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority) and other government authorities concerned cannot escape their responsibility in so far as the launch tragedy is concerned.
Mahmud Ali
138, New Eskaton Road
Dhaka-1000
Pinak tragedy
FE Team | Published: August 26, 2014 00:00:00 | Updated: November 30, 2026 06:01:00
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