The government will cover all medical expenses for the people injured during Sunday’s Ratha Yatra, or chariot festival, in Bogra, Health Minister Dr Samanta Lal Sen has announced.
Two critically injured victims are currently receiving treatment at the Sheikh Hasina National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery and are not out of danger yet, the minister said on Monday during a press briefing following his visit there.
“I have spoken with the victims’ families and assured them that we are doing everything possible. The government will bear all medical expenses for the injured,” he reiterated.
Describing the incident as “very tragic,” Dr Samanta mentioned that the Bogra civil surgeon and the director of the local government hospital have been instructed to ensure the victims receive proper treatment.
Prof ABM Khurshid Alam, director general of the health directorate, and other officials from the Health Services Division were also present during the visit.
The tragedy occurred on Sunday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of five people and injuring some 43 others during Ratha Yatra, a Hindu festival.
A five-member committee has been formed to investigate the cause of the deaths from electrocution at the Seujgari Amtala intersection.
Deputy Commissioner Saiful Islam said the committee, led by Additional Deputy Commissioner Imrul Kayes, has been directed to submit a report within 10 working days.