AC blast burns 10 at Gulistan barbershop, three ‘critically injured’

The health minister says all patients have suffered facial and airway burns

An “air conditioner explosion” at a barbershop in Dhaka’s Gulistan has left 10 people burnt, with nine admitted to the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery.

The blast occurred at Arman Salon near Alu Bazar late Tuesday night.

Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain, speaking after checking on patients at the burn institute, said one patient had burns covering 1 percent of their body, while three had burns covering more than 50 percent.

He added that all patients had suffered facial and airway burns.

"Doctors are providing whatever care burn patients need,” he said. “Some relatives may not have located their family members yet, but doctors and nurses are giving the best possible care.”

According to the minister, many people use air conditioners without realising that gas levels inside the unit can run low or run out over time, and that clogged AC filters can trap air meant to flow outward, circulating it back inside instead, a situation that can lead to accidents.

In response to a question, Sakhawat said the government could raise awareness, but owners must ensure their air conditioners are properly maintained.

He added that a nationwide awareness campaign would be launched on the issue.