Another mate-operated launch runs aground, disaster averted
Our Correspondent, Barisal
A launch, MV Suravi-6 plying along the river Meghna from Dhaka to Barisal ran aground near North Gachhua under Muladi upazila in the early hours of Sunday.Thousands of passengers on board were saved luckily from another serious accident. The accident occurred when the launch was being operated by a Sukani (mate) while its Master was sleeping. According to passengers, at about 1-30 am the launch hit an unmarked shoal and ran aground. Another launch Dipraj failed to pullout Suravi. Finally, another launch of Dhaka-Mirganj route pulled out Suravi during high tide at late night after two and a half hours' effort. At the time of the accident Suravi tilted and leaned dangerously. Panic stricken passengers were saved luckily. They continued their journey sleeplessly. The launch reached Barisal 4 hours late at 7 AM Sunday morning at Barisal station without further incident.
| 
