Explosion at fertiliser factory
We are somewhat relieved that the fertiliser factory blast at Chittagong did not cause much physical damage. However, we are surprised at the statement issued by the Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC) Chairman where he termed the explosion and subsequent release of ammonia into the atmosphere at the fertiliser factory as "just an accident". We do not know what we should make of it. We would like to differ with him. It was not just an accident. Had it been that, hundreds of people in the locality would not have fallen sick. It is fortunate that there were no casualties. And It is too early to assess whether there was any damage to the environment, although evidence of dead fish from a pond 50 yards from the plant points to the likely adverse effects.
We are informed that a probe committee has been formed. While the committee investigates and ascertains the causes of the blast, we are more concerned with what safety measures BCIC intends to put in place to prevent future accidents. Whether it was faulty design of equipment or whether requisite safety measures were lacking need to be identified and rectified. Trivialising the matter with instant comments appears to be an attempt to shrug off from the shoulders any responsibility for the blast. What if "just an accident" had caused deaths. Accidents cannot be foretold but adequate preventive measures and constant alertness can forestall it. We hope that the administration would address the safety issue with due diligence.
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