At least 12 people were killed and several others injured when a passenger bus collided with a train at a level crossing in the Paduar Bazar Bishwaroad area of Cumilla on the Dhaka–Chattogram highway. The accident occurred around 3:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 21, 2026. Cumilla Sadar South Police Station Officer-in-Charge Sirajul Mostafa confirmed the incident, adding that the death toll could rise. Dr. Amit Bhowmik of Cumilla Medical College also confirmed the deaths.

According to train passengers, the bus from Chapainawabganj was crossing the railway gate when the collision occurred, and the gate was reportedly not lowered at the time. Local sources said the train dragged the bus up to Jangalia Station after the impact. Police, army, and fire service personnel arrived soon after to begin rescue operations, and the injured were taken to nearby hospitals.

Authorities have formed three investigation committees and announced financial assistance of Tk 25,000 for each victim’s family.