This year, a total of 580 accidents related to LPG cylinder explosions and fires have occurred across the country, said Brigadier General Mohammad Zahid Kamal, Director General (DG) of the Fire Service and Civil Defence. He added that the total number of gas-related fire incidents has reached around 1,600, causing property damage worth over Tk 20 crore.
He revealed these figures on Saturday (October 11) while speaking at a policy conclave titled “LPG in Bangladesh: Economy, Environment, and Safety” organized by the Daily Bonik Barta at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka.
Brig. Gen. Zahid Kamal said that through rescue operations, the Fire Service managed to save property worth approximately Tk 95 crore. However, many firefighters were injured during these operations. “Recently, three of our colleagues lost their lives in a chemical accident, which has made us even more cautious,” he said.
He emphasized that LPG is a rapidly growing sector, and its use is expected to rise further in the future. Therefore, ensuring safety and public awareness must begin now. “As LPG usage increases, so will the risks of accidents. Training and awareness are essential to reduce these hazards,” he added.
The DG also mentioned that the Fire Service has taken initiatives to include fire safety education in the primary school curriculum. A proposal has been submitted to introduce lessons on fire safety for students from classes one to five, which are expected to be included in textbooks by 2026.
“There is no alternative to training,” Zahid Kamal said. “Just as training and awareness have significantly reduced fire incidents in the ready-made garment sector, similar comprehensive training programs are needed in the LPG sector.”
He further informed that training is currently being provided at 537 fire stations, with plans to expand the number to 997 stations in the near future.
The event’s chief guest was Muhammad Faozul Kabir Khan, Adviser to the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources. Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, BNP Standing Committee member, attended as special guest, while Jalal Ahmed, Chairman of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC), was also present.