A devastating gas explosion rocked the Halishahar area of Chittagong early on Monday, leaving at least nine people severely injured. The incident occurred around 5:00 a.m. on the third floor of the six-storey Hamila Manzil building and quickly spread to neighbouring apartments, causing widespread panic among residents.
Four of the critically injured were immediately transferred to Dhaka for advanced medical care. According to Dr Rafiquddin Ahmed, head of the Burn Unit at Chittagong Medical College Hospital, “The explosion caused significant damage to the respiratory systems of all patients. Due to the severity of their injuries, they required specialist treatment in Dhaka.” Families of the injured confirmed that they are now under intensive care at the National Burn Institute in Dhaka.
Details of the Injured
| Name | Age (Years) | Burn Percentage | Patient Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shakawat Hossain | 46 | 100% | Adult |
| Md. Shipon | 30 | 100% | Adult |
| Md. Suman | 40 | 100% | Adult |
| Md. Shawon | 17 | 80% | Adult |
| Md. Anas | 7 | 25% | Child |
| Md. Ayman | 9 | 20% | Child |
| Ayesha Akter | 4 | 25% | Child |
| Pakhi Akter | 35 | 45% | Adult |
| Rani Akter | 40 | 45% | Adult |
Medical experts noted that burns affecting over 15% of an adult’s body or over 10% of a child’s body are considered critical, making ICU care essential for all nine victims.
Eyewitnesses reported that the explosion originated in the third-floor apartment and rapidly spread to adjacent areas. Residents immediately rescued the injured and rushed them to Chittagong Medical College Hospital, while two fire service units brought the ensuing fire under control. Doors on the second, fourth, and fifth floors were damaged, and the building’s lift has been rendered non-operational.
Assistant Deputy Alamgir Hossain of Chittagong Fire Service clarified that the explosion did not involve any LPG cylinders. Instead, it resulted from a gas leak in the pipeline supplied by Karnaphuli Gas Distribution Company in the building’s kitchen.
Authorities have confirmed that emergency repairs are underway in the affected sections, with safety measures being reinforced on other floors. Residents have been advised to exercise caution, particularly when using gas connections in older buildings.
This tragic incident serves as a stark warning to Chittagong residents, highlighting the dangers posed by ageing infrastructure, neglected gas leaks, and inadequate safety measures. Ensuring fire safety and the secure installation of gas connections has become more crucial than ever.