Manikganj, Aug. 5 -- The Paturia launch terminal in Shibaloy upazila of Manikganj district collapsed into the Padma River on Tuesday afternoon due to strong currents, disrupting launch services on Paturia-Daulatdia route.

Launch terminal supervisor Panna Lal said a jetty completely gave way around 3pm and another collapsed two hours later, causing erosion beneath the jetty pillars and damaging structures to sink into the river.

As a result, launch services were suspended, stranding passengers traveling between Dhaka and 21 southwestern districts. Many were forced to switch to ferries for crossing.

Locals alleged that every year during the monsoon season, this problem arises but the authorities do not make any preparations in advance. T...