2 workers killed in Ctg scrapyard blast

Smoke billowing from the ship after it exploded at a ship-breaking yard in Sitakunda, Chittagong on Tuesday killing two workers. Photo: STAR

Two workers were killed and another sustained burn injuries in an explosion at a ship-breaking yard in Sitakunda, Chittagong on Tuesday.

Miraj, 18, and Rubel, 25, died from their burn injuries at Chittagong Medical College Hospital.

The cause of the fire at 'Mac Corporation Ship Breaking' could not be ascertained.

Firefighters rushed to the scene in the morning hours and doused the fire.

Although Master Kashem, the owner of the ship and also the vice-president of the Ship Breakers Owners Association, said the ship in which the accident occurred was not being cut, our special correspondent on the spot reported that cutting activities were seen amid billowing smoke.

“There are reports that the night guards lit a fire to keep warm in the bitter cold that caused the fire,” Kashem continued, "there are also reports of a cylinder exploding."

"We cannot say until the fire service and civil defence members give us the report.”

Kashem claimed all the three ships ‘awaiting cutting’ on his yard have valid authorisation from relevant departments, including the Department of Environment.

Before their demise, doctors at the hospital said Miraj, who hails from Barisal, was admitted in a critical condition with 100 percent burn and Rubel with 50 percent of his body burnt. Another victim was released after first aid, they said.

Injuries and fatalities at the ship-breaking yards in Sitakunda are frequent and many remain unreported.

According to records and reports, at least 28 people were killed and scores injured in the last twelve months.

Despite High Court orders the owners are yet to take any workers’ safety measures at the yards which constantly expose hundreds of labourers to fatalities and injuries.

Source: The Daily Star, Bangladesh. Tuesday, January 18, 2011

http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/latest_news.php?nid=27999