In a tragic incident in Daudkandi Upazila, Comilla, four members of a single family sustained severe burn injuries following a gas line explosion in the early hours of Tuesday. The accident occurred around sehri time in a residential area of the town, leaving both adults and children critically affected.
The victims, rushed to the National Burn and Plastic Surgery Institute for urgent treatment, include the family patriarch, Monowara (60), her son Zil Haque (37), daughter Umme Humayra (30), and two-year-old child, Huram. According to Resident Surgeon Dr. Shaon Bin Rahman, the severity of the injuries varies, with Zil Haque and Umme Humayra suffering life-threatening burns.
Details of the Injured
| Name | Age | Burn Percentage | Current Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monowara | 60 | 2% | Stable |
| Zil Haque | 37 | 54% | Critical |
| Umme Humayra | 30 | 65% | Critical |
| Huram | 2 | 6% | Under Observation |
Firefighters from the Daudkandi Fire Service swiftly responded after receiving the emergency call. Firefighter Abdul Hannan confirmed that the fire did not spread extensively. “Preliminary observations indicate that this was a gas line explosion, rather than a cylinder blast,” he noted, adding that the exact cause remains under investigation.
Eyewitnesses reported a sudden, deafening explosion that shattered windows and doors throughout the house. Neighbours acted quickly to rescue the injured, transporting them to the hospital for immediate care. Local authorities have also inspected the site and initiated a preliminary investigation.
Residents of Daudkandi have urged caution, especially regarding the use of old or damaged gas lines, which significantly increase the risk of such accidents. Medical professionals emphasise adhering to safety guidelines while ensuring regular maintenance of household gas systems.
As of the latest reports, Monowara and Huram are in stable condition, while Zil Haque and Umme Humayra remain in critical condition, receiving intensive medical attention. Authorities are continuing investigations to determine the precise cause of the explosion.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of gas safety and regular maintenance, highlighting how negligence can endanger entire families.