Open Septic Tank Claims Child’s Life in Rangamati

A five-year-old girl has died after falling into an open septic tank at a building under construction in Kaptai upazila of Rangamati. The tragic incident occurred at around 2:30pm on Monday in the Shilchhari Bazar area of Ward No. 5 under Waggya Union, leaving the local community in deep mourning.

The deceased child, identified as Nandi Mallik, was the daughter of Sujan Mallik, a resident of the area. She lived with her family near the site where the accident took place. Her sudden death has cast a shadow of grief over relatives, neighbours and local residents, many of whom expressed shock over the incident.

According to local residents and police sources, Nandi’s parents were away from home for work at the time of the accident. The child was under the supervision of her grandmother. While playing near their house, she reportedly moved towards a nearby building that was still under construction without her grandmother noticing.

At some point, the child accidentally fell into an uncovered septic tank at the construction site. When she could not be found for some time, family members became concerned and began searching for her. Local people later discovered her inside the septic tank and immediately rescued her.

She was rushed to Kaptai Upazila Health Complex, where doctors examined her and declared her dead. Despite efforts to save her, the child could not be revived.

Residents said the septic tank had become a potential hazard after its cover was stolen, leaving it exposed. Although a fence had reportedly been placed around the area as a precaution, locals said the safety measures were not sufficient to prevent access by a small child.

Mohammad Sarwar Hossain, a member of Ward No. 5 of Waggya Union Parishad, confirmed that the child died after falling into the septic tank of the under-construction building. He said protective fencing had been installed after the tank cover went missing, but no one realised how the child reached the dangerous spot while playing.

Kaptai Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Sheikh Mahmudul Hasan confirmed the incident. He said initial investigations suggested that the child died after falling into the septic tank while playing. Necessary legal procedures are underway.

The incident has renewed concerns among local residents over child safety in areas where construction work is ongoing. Open pits, uncovered water reservoirs, septic tanks and other hazardous structures can pose serious risks, particularly for young children who may not understand the dangers.

Residents have urged building owners and contractors to ensure stronger safety measures at construction sites, including securing open spaces and maintaining proper barriers, to prevent similar tragedies in the future. They said greater awareness and responsibility from all stakeholders are essential to protect