The probe committee investigating the fatal accident on the Dhaka-Mawa-Bhanga expressway in Madaripur concluded that the accident, which claimed the lives of 19 people and injured 20 others, was caused by reckless speeding, lack of fitness of the vehicle and slippery highway.

The probe body submitted its report to Madaripur Deputy Commissioner Dr Rahima Khatun on Tuesday.

The report also made 14 recommendations, including ensuring the fitness of every vehicle and mandating that drivers possess a valid license. It also suggested that a minimum of three lanes should be used for the simultaneous movement of vehicles on one-way roads.

The Madaripur district administration formed a four-member committee following the accident, which occurred on March 19. The committee was asked to submit its report within three working days.    

The other members of the probe committee are – Madaripur’s additional superintendent of police Md Moniruzzaman Fakir, Buet's Assistant Professor Shahnewaz Hasanat-E-Rabbi, and BRTA Assistant Director Mohammad Nurul Hossain.

Dr Rahima Khatun, the Madaripur Deputy Commissioner, stated that the cause of the accident and the recommended measures would be forwarded to the ministry concerned for necessary action to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The tragic accident highlights the need for stricter implementation of road safety regulations in Bangladesh, where road accidents are common due to reckless driving and poorly maintained vehicles.