An official investigation has identified six key causes behind the March 21 train-bus collision at Padua Bazar level crossing in Comilla, which killed 12 passengers and injured at least 20 others. The district administration’s inquiry, led by Additional District Magistrate Mohammad Zafar Sadiq Chowdhury, found negligence by six gatemen, the Lalmai station master, two locomotive drivers, the Roads and Highways Department, and the bus driver. The committee submitted its report with eight recommendations to the district commissioner.

The report revealed that several gatemen were absent or failed to communicate train movements, while the station master did not issue required warnings. The locomotive drivers did not slow down despite missing signals, and roadside structures obstructed the bus driver’s view. The committee also noted that the bus driver ignored safety protocols and route restrictions. Three gatemen have been arrested following a passenger’s case.

To prevent future accidents, the committee recommended regular monitoring of level crossings, mandatory drug testing for gatemen, restoring electrical connections for signal systems, improving coordination between road and rail authorities, and ensuring buses operate only on authorized routes.