Fire Service opens probe into Moghbazar building explosion

A probe panel of the Fire Service and Civil Defence has started an investigation into the collapse of a three-floor building after an horrific explosion in Moghbazar.

A rescue operation is underway at a three-storey building in Moghbazar Wireless Gate’s 79 Outer Circular Road after it collapsed following a blast on Sunday, Jun 27, 2021. Photo: Mahmud Zaman Ovi A rescue operation is underway at a three-storey building in Moghbazar Wireless Gate’s 79 Outer Circular Road after it collapsed following a blast on Sunday, Jun 27, 2021. Photo: Mahmud Zaman Ovi

The police said at least seven people were killed while more than 50 others were injured in the explosion on Sunday.

The probe team led by Lt Col Zillur Rahman, a director of the Fire Service, started working on Monday morning and will submit its report in a week, said Debashish Bardhan, deputy director of the agency.

Fire Service suspects that the explosion was triggered by a leak after the accumulation of gas from Shawarma House or Bengal Meat, both housed in the collapsed building.

The gas cylinders used in Shawarma House most likely triggered the explosion, as that part of the building faced extensive damage, said Bardhan. The authorities, however, can reach a conclusion once the probe completes, he said.

The other possible cause is the air-conditioning system installed inside the building. Shawarma House and Bengal Meat used air-conditioners. A Singer showroom had also air-conditioning machines installed on the second storey.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner Shafiqul Islam ruled out any foul play behind the explosion.

Meanwhile, a RAJUK team inspected the scene on Monday morning, said engineer Mobarak Hossain, a director at the city development agency.

“We are checking the building. A team is at work. We will take the necessary steps once their report is submitted.”

“Locals informed us that the building was about 60-65 years of age. Since the explosion the building has become unsuitable for use,” said Jhoton Debnath, a RAJUK official, told bdnews24.com after inspecting the site.

The office will make decisions on the issue once we submit the report, he said.

Whether the building will be suitable for use in the future will depend on the opinions of BUET specialists, said Hossain.

The owner of the building lives in the Dhanmondi area and authorities are attempting to contact them, he said.