Probe committee formed over worker deaths in Sitakunda gas leak: Finance Minister

At least eight workers have died after toxic gas spread at a ship-breaking yard in Sitakunda, Chattogram. The government has formed a probe committee over the incident, said Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury.

The minister assured that action would be taken based on the investigation report and that the government would stand by the families of the deceased workers.

The minister visited the injured at Chattogram Medical College Hospital on Friday afternoon and spoke to journalists.

The finance minister said the government would stand by the families of those killed and injured in the gas leak at the ship-breaking yard in Sitakunda.

The owners have already announced compensation of Tk 10 lakh for each victim's family.

He said the government is forming an investigation committee and action will be taken based on its report. If any negligence on the part of the owners is found, appropriate measures will be taken.

The minister said the army, along with police and fire service, is working to bring the situation under control.

Earlier on Friday morning, toxic gas leaked from a tank at Ferdous Steel Ship Breaking Yard in Sitakunda, Chattogram, killing eight workers one by one. The injured were taken to CMCH and private hospitals.