Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury on Friday said a probe committee will be formed to investigate the incident in which eight workers were killed in a suspected toxic gas leak at a ship-breaking yard in Chittagong's Sitakunda.
“Actions 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 Chittagong Medical College Hospital on Friday 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 Tk10 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 issues certifications.
"It is the government's responsibility to determine if there were any compliance deficiencies, and if so, to take appropriate action," he said.
Chittagong Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Mian, BNP leader Abul Hashem Bakkar, Chittagong Customs Agents Association President, and Chamber Director SM Saiful Alam were, among others, at the event.
