So far 32 bodies have been recovered after a launch, carrying more than 50 passengers, capsized in the Buriganga river after being hit by another larger vessel in Dhaka's Shyambazar area today.

Rezaul Karim, officer-in-charge of Sadarghat River Police Outpost confirmed the matter.

A man broke down in tears after seeing body of his relative. Photo- Mumit M/TBS

Of the victims, 19 are men, eight women and three children. However, the identity of the victims could not be known immediately.

"Collision between two launches caused the accident," Commodore Golam Sadeq, chairman of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA), made the disclosure in a briefing.

Relatives of the missing people have been asked to contact BIWTA on 01716026704.

Members of Coast Guard, Naval Police, Navy and Fire Service are conducting rescue operation.

BIWTA has formed a four-member probe team to investigate into the accident.

Bangladesh Passengers' Welfare Association has demanded immediate rescue of the victims, their medical treatment and a suitable compensation for them, among others, in connection with the accident.

The organisation's Secretary General Mozammel Haque made the demands through a press release.

Earlier in the day, a passenger vessel named MV Rishan Morning Bird had a collision with MV Moyur, a launch plying on Dhaka-Chandpur route and capsized with on board passengers in the river. Few passengers managed to swim to the river bank, but many remained missing.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed her profound shock for the loss of lives in the launch capsize.

The premier prayed for the eternal salvation of the departed souls and expressed deep sympathy to the bereaved families, according to PM office media wing. The premier is keeping regular update on the rescue operation.