A devastating gas line explosion in the Halisahar area of Chattogram has claimed the lives of five members of the same family, plunging the neighbourhood into profound grief. The latest victim, 49-year-old family patriarch Sakhawat Hossain, died at 10:40 a.m. on Wednesday while undergoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit of the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery in the capital.
Medical specialists confirmed that he had sustained burns to nearly one hundred per cent of his body. Despite comprehensive intensive care, ventilatory support, and rigorous infection control measures, doctors were unable to save him. Burn experts explain that when such an extensive proportion of the body is affected, the risks of bloodstream infection and multiple organ failure increase dramatically, frequently resulting in fatal complications.
The explosion occurred in the early hours of Monday in a third-floor flat of a six-storey residential building known as Halima Manzil, located beside a local mosque in H Block of Halisahar. Preliminary assessments suggest that gas had accumulated in the kitchen and ignited upon contact with a spark, triggering a powerful blast. The force of the explosion left nine family members with severe burn injuries.
Four other relatives had already succumbed to their injuries earlier in the week. Nurjahan Akter Rani died on Monday evening while being transported to hospital. Her 16-year-old son, Shawon, passed away on Tuesday morning during treatment. Later that afternoon, 40-year-old Samir Ahmed Sumon lost his life, followed by 35-year-old Ashura Akter Pakhi at approximately 10:45 p.m. the same night.
The remaining four injured family members continue to receive treatment in critical condition. Physicians report that large portions of their bodies have been severely burned, and their progress is being monitored around the clock.
Casualties at a Glance
| Name | Age | Family Role | Time of Death |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sakhawat Hossain | 49 | Head of family | Wednesday morning |
| Nurjahan Akter Rani | Not specified | Wife | Monday evening |
| Shawon | 16 | Son | Tuesday morning |
| Samir Ahmed Sumon | 40 | Younger brother | Tuesday afternoon |
| Ashura Akter Pakhi | 35 | Sister-in-law | Tuesday night |
Initially, the injured were taken to a local hospital in Chattogram before being transferred to the specialised burn institute in the capital for advanced care.
Safety experts have reiterated that gas accumulation in enclosed spaces can lead to catastrophic explosions from even the smallest spark. They advise regular inspection of gas connections, ensuring adequate ventilation in kitchens, and immediately shutting off the main supply if the smell of gas is detected.
Local authorities have pledged a thorough investigation to determine the precise cause of the explosion and have assured residents that necessary preventive measures will be implemented. For the bereaved family and the surrounding community, however, the loss is immeasurable and will be felt for years to come.
