State Minister for Shipping Md. Rajib Ahsan announced that the route permits of two launches involved in the recent Sadarghat accident have been cancelled. He made the statement after visiting the accident site at Sadarghat Launch Terminal on the night of March 18, 2026, where one person was killed and another injured. The minister said those responsible for the tragedy will face exemplary punishment.

According to the minister, the Ministry of Shipping and the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) have each formed separate investigation committees to determine the cause of the accident. The ministry’s committee is headed by Additional Secretary (Organization) Abul Islam, while BIWTA’s committee is led by Director (Administration) Saiful Islam. Both committees have been instructed to submit their reports within three working days. Representatives from BIWTA, the Department of Shipping, Fire Service, and River Police are included in the ministry’s committee.

The minister added that the injured victims are members of the same family from Mehendiganj in Barishal, including a pregnant woman. The government has ensured advanced medical care for them and promised maximum support to the deceased’s family.