Toxic exposure at Ishwardi School leaves 40 students ill, hospitalised

At least 40 students fell ill after a bottle containing a toxic substance broke inside a school toilet in Ishwardi upazila of Pabna.

The incident took place at Muladuli High School during class hours on Wednesday (May 13).

According to officials, two sixth-grade students first became sick after coming into contact with the substance. As others rushed to assist them, more students began showing symptoms, eventually raising the number of affected students to around 40.

All affected students were quickly taken to Ishwardi Upazila Health Complex, where they received prompt medical attention. Authorities said their condition is now stable.

Fire Service personnel were deployed immediately after the incident and assisted in transporting the students to hospital.

Ishwardi Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Hasan Mohammad Shoaib confirmed the incident, saying the source of the toxic bottle inside the school toilet is under investigation. “A probe committee will be formed, and those responsible will face strict action,” he said.

School authorities said they informed local administration immediately after students began falling ill and ensured swift medical response.

The incident has sparked concern among parents and locals, with questions raised over how the hazardous substance entered the school premises. An official investigation is underway.