Accident at Sitakunda shipyard very unfortunate; probe committee to be formed: Khasru

Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury today said a probe committee will be formed to investigate the incident nine workers, including two siblings, were killed and at least 10 others fell ill after being exposed to toxic gas leaking from a scrap vessel at a shipbreaking yard in Sitakunda, Chattogram, on Friday morning.

“Action will be taken based on the findings of the committee. There is no bias here; it is the government's duty to conduct a thorough investigation and ascertain the facts," he said, describing the incident as 'deeply unfortunate’.

He made the remarks while visiting the Chattogram Medical College Hospital this afternoon to offer condolences to the families of the victims and to inquire about the medical care of the injured workers.

The minister mentioned that the Bangladesh Shipbreakers and Recyclers Association is providing Taka 10 lakh to the families of each victim.

“The government will also contribute in some manner. An army team has been dispatched to the site. They are working to halt the gas emissions," he added.

The minister emphasized that since the current government assumed office, there has been a focus on ensuring compliance within the industry. He referred to the Hong Kong Charter grading of Green Shipbreaking Yards, which issue certifications.

"It is the government's responsibility to determine if there were any compliance deficiencies, and if so, to take appropriate action," he said.

Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah, BNP leader Abul Hashem Bakkar, Chattogram Customs Agents Association President, and Chamber Director SM Saiful Alam were, among others, at the event.