Sitakunda oxygen plant blast: UNO says boiler explosion caused fire

Sitakunda Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Shahadat Hossain has claimed the blast, and fire that took place in the oxygen plant in Chittagong's Sitakunda upazila were caused by pressure built up in the boiler.

“So far, the rescue operation is almost over. The work of the fire service is at the end. We fear no further accidents taking place here. However, we have taken precautionary measures,” he told reporters after visiting the site at Seema Oxygen Plant in Chittagong's Sitakunda upazila. 

The UNO said they were not allowing anyone near the factory's site.

Dhaka Tribune

“Those who have been killed must be compensated. Like BM Depot, there is a compensation system from the owner. The deputy commissioner announced yesterday (Saturday) that the government will cover the expenses for treating those who were injured in the fire.”

When asked whether these factories are under the supervision of the administration, he said: "The related government agencies including us supervise the factories There are 300 to 350 factories in Sitakunda, and we actively try to monitor, inspect, and raid them.”

The fire service also believes that the explosion occurred in the boiler. 

Dhaka Tribune

Assistant Director of Chittagong Fire Service and Civil Defence Abdul Malek said: "All the agencies are investigating the reason behind the incident, and the findings of the investigation will reveal the truth.”

He added that a meeting of the inquiry committee is scheduled for later today. 

“Based on our initial observations, it appears the explosion occurred inside the boiler, specifically due to the pressure of the compressor.”

The Fire Service, RAB and police started rescue operations for the second day on Sunday after Saturday's explosion at Seema Oxygen Plant.

Dhaka Tribune

The explosion at Seema Oxygen Plant on Saturday rattled neighbouring areas and engulfed them in thick black smoke. Locals said the massive explosion shook at least two square kilometres of the surrounding area.

A seven-member probe body was formed to investigate the reason behind the explosion.