At least 40 people have been injured in a devastating explosion caused by a gas cylinder in Bangladesh. Health Minister Dr. Samant Lal Sen provided updates on the situation after visiting victims at the Sheikh Hasina National Burn and Plastic Surgery Institute in Dhaka on Wednesday evening (March 13). Among the injured, eight individuals suffered burns covering up to 90 percent of their bodies and are currently receiving intensive care.

The explosion occurred just before Iftar, the evening meal to break the fast during Ramadan, around 6:30 PM local time. Eyewitnesses reported that the incident occurred while workers from local factories were connecting a new gas cylinder at a rented house. The sudden ignition led to a fire that quickly engulfed the premises, forcing the occupants to flee for safety. Tragically, five members of the same family were among those injured in the blast.

Emergency response teams, including the Konabari Fire Service, were swift to arrive at the scene to extinguish the flames and provide medical assistance to the injured. Team Leader Ashraf confirmed that the fire originated from the gas cylinder, although further investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the explosion.

The victims were promptly transported to the Sheikh Hasina National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery for urgent medical treatment. The severity of the injuries underscores the urgent need for comprehensive care and support for those affected by the tragic incident.

As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the explosion, the focus remains on providing critical medical assistance to the injured and ensuring the safety of the surrounding community. Details regarding the cause of the explosion and any potential safety lapses will be forthcoming as the investigation progresses.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with gas cylinders and the importance of adhering to proper safety protocols when handling such equipment. Efforts to raise awareness about fire safety measures and promote responsible usage of gas cylinders are essential in preventing similar tragedies in the future.