A joyous picnic turned into a tragedy as three students from the Islamic University of Technology (IUT) lost their lives due to electrocution in Gazipur’s Shreepur upazila. The incident occurred on Saturday, November 23, at approximately 10:30 AM in Udaykhali village of Telihati Union when a picnic bus came into contact with a high-voltage electric line.
The deceased students were Mozammel Hossain Naim (24), Mostakim Rahman Mahin (22), and Zobayer Alam Sakib (22). Among them, Mahin, a final-year student and active campaigner against inequality, hailed from Rangpur. His grieving family and friends recalled his leadership and commitment to social causes, making the loss even more poignant.
Details of the Tragedy
The annual excursion of the Mechanical and Electrical Engineering departments involved 460 students traveling in six double-decker buses and three microbuses to Mati Mayer Eco Resort. As the convoy approached Udaykhali village on a narrow rural road, one of the buses brushed against an exposed 11,000-volt power line, electrocuting passengers on board. Witnesses reported the tragic scene of fire, smoke, and cries for help as local residents rushed to rescue the injured.
Two students died on the spot, while another succumbed to injuries later. Ten others were injured, six of whom are under treatment at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital.
Investigations and Immediate Actions
The IUT administration has formed a five-member committee led by Pro-Vice-Chancellor Dr. Rakibul Islam to investigate the incident. The committee will submit its findings to identify lapses and recommend corrective measures. Speaking on the matter, Dr. Islam stated, “Such an incident is unprecedented in our years of organizing similar events. We are committed to ensuring treatment for the injured and finding the root cause of this tragedy.”
In response, the Bangladesh Rural Electrification Board (BREB) suspended seven officials and staff members from Mymensingh Rural Electricity Cooperative-2 for negligence. Those suspended include the Deputy General Managers (DGMs) of technical and zonal offices, junior engineers, and linemen involved in managing the line in the area.
Reactions
Families of the victims expressed their anguish, demanding justice and accountability. Mahin’s family called the incident a result of gross negligence, with his uncle stating, “This is an unbearable loss. Proper investigation and justice are essential to prevent such tragedies.”
University teachers and students remain in shock, mourning the untimely deaths of their peers. Residents and local witnesses criticized the lack of safety measures for the exposed high-voltage wires that caused the accident.
Statements from Authorities
Pro-Vice-Chancellor Dr. Rakibul Islam and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Rafiqul Islam both described the incident as deeply distressing and pledged to take every possible measure to support the injured and bereaved families. BREB officials inspected the site and confirmed immediate action to address any safety concerns in the region.
As the IUT community and affected families grapple with this heartbreaking event, demands for stricter regulations and infrastructure safety have intensified to ensure that such tragedies are not repeated.
