Gas leak in Kishoreganj pipeline persists for 45 days, sparks health risks for locals

A gas leak has been ongoing for nearly 45 days in a high-pressure Titas Gas transmission pipeline under the Arial Khan River in Kishoreganj, causing large quantities of gas to be wasted daily and leaving local residents in fear and at health risk due to the strong gas odour.

The leak occurred in the Titas Gas transmission line along the riverbank in the Kazir Char area of Katiyadi upazila. Footage of the leak has gone viral, drawing crowds of onlookers daily.

Locals alleged that the leak was caused by a hole punctured during an attempt to illegally extract gas for a nearby lime factory that was set up in early June. When the connection attempt damaged the pipeline, those responsible tried to hide the leak with water hyacinths. The factory was shut down after the allegations came to light, and the owner and workers have since fled the area.

Local residents said repair work began on July 9, but gas is still escaping from the pipeline. The company has cut off gas supply to Kishoreganj for safety reasons, affecting thousands of consumers.

Titas Gas officials said the leak has created pressure in the pipeline, and the repair process is challenging due to strong currents, water pressure and soil erosion during the monsoon. Investigations into the incident are ongoing, but no formal complaint has been filed.