Chittagong ammonia factory blast

We are happy that the probe report on the DAP fertiliser factory explosion has been made public. This is certainly a departure from the norm where findings are not often shared in this manner. The report has brought out the degree of blatant negligence and gross dereliction of duty on the part of two senior officials of the factory, the Deputy Chief Engineer (electricity) (DCE) and General Manager (Technical and Maintenance Service) (GM, TMS) that caused the blast. We had editorialised on the occurrence a few days ago and commented on the BCIC Chairman's hasty remarks terming the blast as "just an accident." Our position has been validated; should he not withdraw his remarks in light of the report? We believe that the manner in which the individuals in question went about their business is a classic example of how not to run a plant! 

However, we cannot but take issue with the fact that the question of holding the two errant officials responsible for their utter disregard of duty has been glossed over by suggesting that the losses be defrayed from their gratuity. The so called penalty suggested merely dilutes the criminality of the DCE and GM, T&M given that the committee has found the cost of destruction of the old ammonia tank is around Tk. 5 crore and the replacement will cost the national exchequer around Tk. 20-22 crore, not to talk of the loss of fish stock in the adjacent area amounting to nearly Tk. 2 crore; and it was only providence that prevented serious damage to life and property.

The blast is a case of sheer criminal negligence and those responsible should face the full brunt of the law.