A slag explosion at a BSRM factory in Mirsharai, Chittagong, injured seven workers.
The incident occurred around 5pm on Tuesday at the Steel-2 section of the BSRM factory in the Sonapahar area of Jorarganj Union.
The injured were identified as Abdul Hamid, 28, Ismail, 40, Faisal, 29, Sakib, 19, Shahidul 26, Saifa, 19, and Arman, 29. Abdul Hamid, whose condition is critical, was referred to Chittagong Medical College (CMCH) Hospital.
According to workers and local officials, the explosion occurred while work was ongoing in the Steel Mill-2 section, when waste slag suddenly burst, releasing excessive dust.
The dust entered the workers’ eyes and mouths, causing breathing difficulties. All seven were rescued and taken to the Mirsharai Upazila Health Complex. As Abdul Hamid’s condition deteriorated, he was transferred to CMCH for advanced treatment.
After receiving information, members of the Baraiyarhat Fire Service and Civil Defence rushed to the site. However, the factory authorities managed to bring the situation under control before their arrival.
Co-workers Saidur and Shipon said six of the injured workers were released after receiving primary treatment, while Abdul Hamid was sent to CMCH due to severe breathing problems.
Delwar Hossain Molla, administrative manager of the Sonapahar BSRM factory, said a small fire broke out in waste slag near Gate No 2 of the factory, but there was no major explosion or fire.
“The fire was brought under control before the fire service arrived. A few workers sustained minor injuries and received treatment at the upazila health complex,” he said.
Duty physician at the upazila health complex, Jubayer Hossain Tarek, said one worker developed asthma-related complications after inhaling dust and was referred to CMCH, while the others were discharged after primary treatment.
Baraiyarhat Fire Service and Civil Defence Station in-charge Zainal Abedin Titas confirmed that a slag explosion occurred in the Steel-2 factory’s slag section, adding that the company’s own firefighting and rescue team had controlled the situation and transported the injured to hospital before the fire service reached the scene.
