IBC Demands Investigation Into Fatal Shipyard Gas Leak

Bangla Press Desk:  IndustriAll Bangladesh Council (IBC) has called for a formal investigation into a fatal toxic gas exposure at a shipbreaking yard at Sitakunda in Chattogram.

Rejected its characterisation as a 'routine accident', the rights group said the incident could have been prevented through proper safety measures and demanded fair compensation for the victims' families, according to a statement, signed by IBC President Kutub Uddin Ahmed and General Secretary Babul Akhter.

IBC made five demands, including a swift and impartial investigation into the August 14 incident and publication of its findings without delay.

It also called for strict legal action against shipyard owners or individuals found responsible for negligence or failure to comply with mandatory safety regulations.

The IBC demanded adequate financial compensation for the families of all deceased workers in accordance with ILO standards, while ensuring that all medical treatment and rehabilitation expenses for injured workers are covered.

It also called for mandatory gas testing, risk assessments, safety training and emergency rescue facilities across all shipbreaking yards in Sitakunda, as well as the suspension of hazardous operations across the sector until proper safety mechanisms and protocols are fully operational.

The council emphasised that worker safety must take precedence over industrial profit, calling for the immediate and permanent enforcement of occupational safety standards across the shipbreaking sector.