33 killed, 35 injured in Bangladesh train-bus accident

Dhaka, July 11 (UNI) At least 33 people were killed and 35 others injured when an express train rammed into a passenger bus in Akkelpur rail crossing in northern Joypurhat district of Bangladesh today.

Police said the accident took place at around 1000 hrs as the Khulna-bound ''Rupsha Express'' train rammed into the passenger bus at an unmanned level crossing.

Nineteen people died on the spot and 14 died either at Joypurhat Modern Hospital or on way to it. Twenty-six passengers have been admitted to hospital and four, critically injured, shifted to Rajshahi Medical College Hospial.

Joypurhat Superintendent of Police Abullah Al Azad Chowdhruy confirmed the death of 31 people, but added that the toll might go up.

However, local rescuers said 33 people, mostly bus passengers, died.

''The bus was completely smashed and twisted and thrown into a ditch,'' said a witness from the scene of devastation. He said there was no 'gateman' at the railway crossing, but a notice was hung alerting passers-by ''to move carefully''.

Police and fire fighters began rescue operation with the help of the local people.

UNI XC PA DS1520