Ambulance bursts into flames inside Narayanganj hospital, 2 burnt

Witnesses say panic gripped the hospital as patients and relatives rushed outside during the blaze

An ambulance at a Narayanganj hospital has suddenly burst into flames, leaving the driver and a patient’s relative burnt and spreading panic throughout the hospital.

The incident occurred around 8pm on Thursday in front of Narayanganj General (Victoria) Hospital’s emergency department as a 2.5-year-old sick child was about to be taken to a Dhaka hospital.

The blaze started immediately after the driver started the engine, engulfing the vehicle within moments, according to witnesses.

The injured were identified as a 30-year-old driver, identified only as Bijoy, and 50-year-old Rozina Begum from Rajbari in Bandar Upazila.

According to bystanders, Rozina’s sister, Farida Begum, who was standing in front of the ambulance, narrowly escaped as she ran away in panic. The child had not yet been brought out to the vehicle.

Fire Service and Civil Defence Deputy Assistant Director Abdullah Al Arefin said the injured driver was sent to the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery in Dhaka, while Rozina was being treated at Narayanganj General Hospital’s emergency ward.

Farida recounted that her grandson Ayan suddenly fell ill and was taken to the hospital, where doctors advised referral to a specialised hospital in Dhaka. The family hired a private ambulance, but before they could board, flames erupted.

“The heat was so intense we ran in all directions. Rozina’s leg was burnt because she was standing too close,” Farida said.

A fire unit from nearby Mondolpara station doused the blaze.

Arefin said a leak in the ambulance’s gas cylinder caused the fire when the engine was fired up.

The sudden blaze sparked panic across the hospital, with patients and relatives rushing outside, witnesses said.

“We fled in fear when we saw the ambulance burning and waited on the street,” said inpatient Sharmin Akter.