9 burnt in Ctg gas explosion being brought to Dhaka

Nine people burnt in a gas explosion in a multi-storey building in Halishahar, Chattogram, are being brought to Dhaka for advanced treatment. Doctors said at least four of the injured are in critical condition.

The explosion occurred around 5 am on Monday, February 23, in a third-floor flat of 'Halima Manzil', a six-storey building in H Block of Halishahar area. Fire spread throughout the flat immediately after the explosion.

Dr Rafiq Uddin Ahmed, chief of the burn unit at Chattogram Medical College Hospital, said all the injured have suffered respiratory tract damage. All are in critical condition. They have been referred to Dhaka for advanced treatment.

A relative of the injured said doctors advised taking them to the National Burn Institute in Dhaka. Burn patients may need ICU at any time. ICU facilities here are limited. They are being taken to Dhaka by ambulance.

According to a doctor at the burn unit, three of the injured have suffered 100 per cent burns. One has suffered 80 per cent burns, two have suffered 45 per cent burns—all adults. Additionally, two children have suffered 25 per cent burns and another child 20 per cent burns.

According to doctors, burns exceeding 10 per cent in children and 15 per cent in adults are considered critical. They may need ICU at any time.

Those injured in the explosion are: Sakhawat Hossain, 46; Md Shipon, 30; Md Sumon, 40; Md Shaown, 17; Md Anas, 7; Md Aiman, 9; Ayesha Akter, 4; Pakhi Akter, 35; and Rani Akter, 40.

Locals rescued the injured and took them to Chattogram Medical College before fire service arrived at the scene. Later, two fire service units brought the fire under control.

The explosion caused extensive damage to the building. Doors of various units on the second, fourth and fifth floors were blown off, and the lift was damaged.

Divisional Fire Service Assistant Sub-Officer Alamgir Hossain said LPG cylinders were not used in that flat; it had a connection from Karnaphuli Gas Distribution Company. Initial investigation suggests gas leaked from the stove and accumulated in the kitchen. Later, it came into contact with a spark, causing the explosion that burnt everyone.

Authorities concerned said an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the incident.