Rajbari Correspondent:
Panic swept through Rajbari Sadar yesterday when a motorcycle suddenly caught fire at the Palash Filling Station, narrowly avoiding a major disaster. Thanks to the swift actions of both the station staff and local residents, a potentially devastating incident was contained before it could spread.
Eyewitnesses reported that Iqbal Hossain was refuelling his motorcycle when sparks erupted from the fuel nozzle. Rahat, a petrol pump attendant, noticed the ignition immediately and attempted to remove the nozzle and douse the flames. Reacting quickly, Iqbal Hossain dismounted and moved a safe distance away, protecting himself from potential harm. Despite these efforts, the motorcycle caught fire almost instantly.
Local residents present at the scene jumped into action, using available equipment to control the blaze until the Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defence unit arrived. The fire service team completely extinguished the fire, preventing further damage to the station and surrounding areas.
Fire Service officer Shamim Molla explained, “Such fires can start due to sparks or excessive heat from the engine. If a motorcycle engine is overheated, it is crucial to allow it to cool before refuelling.”
Arif, a local automobile electrician who witnessed the event, added, “The electrical connection and spark plug on the motorcycle were improperly installed. Faulty wiring or loose connections can easily produce sparks and ignite fuel.”
The incident has prompted authorities and experts to issue urgent safety advice for motorcycle riders and petrol station visitors:
| Safety Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine Cooling | Avoid refuelling when the engine is excessively hot. |
| Electrical Check | Regularly inspect spark plugs and wiring for faults. |
| Avoid Faulty Wiring | Do not use damaged or exposed wires. |
| No Smoking | Refrain from smoking or creating sparks at petrol stations. |
| Emergency Response | Move to a safe distance and alert fire services immediately. |
Local residents stressed that the rapid response of the community was crucial in preventing the incident from escalating into a full-scale fire. They have urged both riders and petrol pump operators to remain vigilant and adhere strictly to safety protocols to minimise the risk of such accidents in the future.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly minor oversights can turn dangerous, highlighting the importance of preparedness, awareness, and community cooperation in averting potential disasters.