HATIYA, Noakhali – In a heartbreaking incident on Saturday afternoon, the life of a young boy came to a tragic end when he was run over by a road roller used in local construction works. The victim, Mohammad Azim, a second-grade student, lost his life while playing near a construction site in Hatiya Upazila.
The accident occurred around midday in Ward No. 4 of Hatiya Municipality. Azim, the son of farmer Belal Uddin from West Bejugalia village, had approached the road roller out of curiosity. Eyewitnesses reported that, while inspecting the heavy machinery, one of his feet slipped under the roller, causing an immediate and fatal accident. He was rushed to the Hatiya Upazila Health Complex, where doctors confirmed his death.
Belal Uddin, the grieving father, spoke through tears, “The driver was new. I had warned him myself in the morning that this is a densely populated area and to work carefully. If only he had listened, my child would still be alive. I only seek justice for my son.”
Hatiya police chief, Officer-in-Charge Md. Saiful Alam, confirmed that authorities visited the scene and spoke with the family. “We are investigating the incident and legal action will follow,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO), Md. Alauddin, described the event as “extremely tragic.” He assured that the upazila administration and municipal authorities would support the bereaved family, pledging assistance in any necessary way.
Local residents expressed shock and sorrow over the incident, emphasising the need for stricter safety measures around construction sites in populated areas. Many voiced concern that the area’s dense settlement, combined with the operation of heavy machinery, poses a continuing risk to children and other residents.
Summary of Incident
| Date & Time | Saturday, 10 January, Afternoon |
|---|---|
| Location | Ward No. 4, Hatiya Municipality, Noakhali |
| Victim | Mohammad Azim, 2nd Grade Student |
| Age | Approximately 7–8 years |
| Family | Son of farmer Belal Uddin |
| Cause | Road roller accident at construction site |
| Response | Taken to Hatiya Upazila Health Complex; confirmed deceased |
| Authorities’ Action | Police investigation underway; UNO pledges family support |
This tragic accident highlights the dangers posed by heavy machinery in residential areas, particularly for children who often approach such equipment out of curiosity. Local officials have urged increased vigilance and stricter adherence to safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
