Cox’s Bazar LPG blast's burn injuries toll reaches 16

The number of injured in the devastating LPG filling station explosion in Cox’s Bazar has increased as more victims sought treatment hours after the blast, officials said on Thursday (February 26).

The explosion took place around 10:20pm on Wednesday at an unauthorized LPG station in the Kolatoli tourist area, triggering a massive fire that spread rapidly to nearby structures.

Initially reported at 10, the injury toll has since risen as additional burn victims were admitted to hospitals.

Several of the critically injured were shifted to Chattogram Medical College Hospital, while others were taken to Dhaka for advanced care.

Hospital sources said some patients sustained severe burns and remain in critical condition.

According to Cox’s Bazar Fire Service and Civil Defence officials, the blast was likely caused by prolonged gas leakage from a 14,000-litre storage tank before it exploded.

Witnesses reported smelling strong gas fumes in the area for nearly three hours prior to the explosion.

The fire gutted at least 10 houses and destroyed 20 to 25 tourist transport jeeps. Firefighters, supported by members of the armed forces and volunteers, brought the blaze under control after nearly five hours of efforts.

Authorities said legal action is being initiated against the owners for operating the station without approval, while an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the incident.