Five children have died after a floating bridge collapsed during Eid festivities.
The makeshift crossing had been set up in front of a police station to cater to the large number of devotees.
The authorities reportedly used drums to connect nearby river sandbars and provide access during the religious festival.
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The bridge could not withstand their weight and collapsed, sending over 100 people into the Brahmaputra River in Jamalpur, Bangladesh, on Saturday (21 Mar).
While most managed to swim to safety, several children disappeared under the surface and drowned.
The deceased have been identified as Khadija, 12, and her brother Abdul Motaleb, 6; Rifat, 16, and his sister Mayamoni, 10; and Abir Hossain, 16.
The minors were laid to rest near their homes on Sunday morning, as reported by Need To Know.
At least one person suffered injuries and was taken to the hospital for treatment.
The authorities have since removed the remains of the collapsed bridge.
M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, an MP who also serves as State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism, visited the site after the collapse.
District magistrate Mohammad Yusuf Ali said a four-member inquiry committee has been assembled to investigate the tragedy.
He also announced financial assistance of £152.60 (BDT 25,000) for the victims’ families.
The investigation is ongoing.
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