Sitakunda explosion: BSBRA to give Tk 10 lakh to each victim's family

The Bangladesh Ship Breakers and Recyclers Association (BSBRA) has announced compensation of Tk 10 lakh for the family of each worker killed in the explosion and toxic gas leak at Ferdous Steel Ship Breaking Yard in Sitakunda, Chattogram. The Bangladesh Ship Recycling Board (BSRB) has also ordered a temporary shutdown of all operations at the yard.

A five-member investigation committee has been formed by BSBRA to probe the cause of the accident. The Chattogram district administration has also announced the formation of a separate investigation committee comprising experts.

BSRB Director General Shafiul Alam Talukder issued the 'stop operation order' on Friday, August 14.

The order sent to Ferdous Steel Ship Breaking Yard Managing Director Ferdous Wahid mentioned seven deaths so far in the incident involving gas connections. However, according to the latest information, the death toll has risen to nine.

BSRB Director General Shafiul Alam Talukder said all operations at the yard would remain suspended until further notice. The concerned authorities have been instructed to implement the order properly.

Although the BSRB order mentioned seven deaths, it did not specify in detail exactly where and how the accident occurred and the precise link between the incident and the fatalities.

BSBRA President Mohammad Mohsin said the association would provide Tk 10 lakh in compensation to the family of each deceased worker.

Ferdous Steel Ship Breaking Managing Director Ferdous Wahid said the families of each deceased and injured worker would be compensated according to government regulations. Necessary arrangements would also be made for advanced treatment of the injured workers.

A five-member investigation committee has been formed by BSBRA to look into the cause of the accident, with Captain Mohammad Enam as its head.

Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Jahidul Islam Miah said the district administration would also form an investigation committee comprising experts. The committee will examine the cause of the accident and related matters.

BSRB is involved in the approval, safety, environmental standards and implementation of relevant regulations for ship recycling yards.