Four people including three members of a family sustained burn injuries in an explosion at a residential building in Fatullah of Narayanganj early Sunday (August 13, 2023). Two more people sustained injuries in the incident. Sabuj Khandaker; Rana Miah, his wife Bithi Aktar and their child are now undergoing treatment at Sheikh Hasina National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery in Dhaka. Read: Burnt mother succumbs to injuries in DMCH; baby in emergency One of the other injured was identified as fruit seller Abu Kalam who is receiving treatment at National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR). The other injured was given first aid. Neighbours and relatives of the burn victims said a blast occurred on the fifth floor of a six-storey residential building owned by one Aslam Sikdar around 12 am. Later, locals rescued the tenants and sent them to Narayanganj General Hospital. They were subsequently shifted to the capital’s burn institute. Read: Woman burnt to death in Chattogram Fakhruddin, deputy director of Narayanganj Fire Service and Civil Defence department, said doors and windows of the two units of the fifth floor and other valuables were burnt in the blast. Walls of the flat fell on the roof of a semi-pucca house near the building, leaving two more people injured, he said. The reason behind the blast and extent of damages will be known upon investigation, the fire service officer added. Reade more: 2 women among 9 burnt in gas line explosion in Dhaka

In recent years, reports of gas explosions in Dhaka city and other places in Bangladesh are worryingly becoming more frequent. Whether it’s a residential building, market, warehouse, or business center, there is a looming threat of gas explosion. Several factors may trigger a gas blast and cause fatal damage to human lives and properties. Let’s take a look at what causes gas explosions and how to minimize the risks. Common Causes of Gas Explosions in Residential Buildings A residential building and flats in it face major risk when required safety measures against gas explosions are not taken. There have been many incidents of gas explosions in residential units simply due to carelessness and lack of proper measures. Here are some possible reasons for gas explosions in residential units. Gas Leaks One of the prime causes of gas explosions in residential buildings is gas leak. Apartments or houses use gas cylinders or direct gas lines. If there is a leak in the line or the cylinder, it might potentially cause explosions if the home unit doesn’t have good ventilation. Read More: Fire Safety in Apartments: Causes and Prevention Faulty Gas Appliances Gas appliances like cookers, stoves, ovens, or heaters can malfunction and cause gas leakage. If the gas stove or cooker is not properly connected to the gas line, it may leak gas and lead to explosions. In many residential buildings and apartments, people tend to use expired gas cylinders which may cause gas explosions. Poorly Maintained Gas Equipment The gas line and the cylinder can also be the source of gas explosion. For example, if the main supply line or the cylinder gets corroded, it might end up leaking gas at different spots. Such leakages may culminate into explosions in contact with fire or sparks. Air conditioners and refrigerators are equipped with non-supply gas storage or operated systems. Without proper maintenance, these appliances may deteriorate over time and cause fatal consequences. Improper Installation Gas units should always be installed under the supervision of a trained professional. Improper installation may lead to gas leaks. It’s better to avoid DIY procedures to avoid gas leaks and subsequent explosions. Read More: Workplace Fire Safety: 12 Effective Ways to Prevent Fire Hazards Faulty Connections  In many cases, gas leaks in residential buildings and apartments are caused by faulty connections in the gas pipeline. When the gas, trapped in a closed room or space, comes in contact with flame or spark, it can cause an explosion. Natural Disasters Natural disasters can also be possible causes of gas explosions. In the event of a natural disaster like cyclone, earthquake, or flood, gas lines or cylinders can leak which might lead to explosions. 

A fire that quickly tore through a 14-storey private general and dental medical college hospital building in the Nikunja area of Khilkhet in Dhaka Thursday was brought under control after almost two hours, the authorities said. The blaze began on the eighth floor of the building, which houses the female hostel of City Dental College and Hospital, at around 7pm.  "On information, nine firefighting units of the fire service responded to the fire within 10 minutes. However, they could tame the flames around 8:45pm," Shahjahan Shikder, deputy assistant director (media cell) of Fire Service and Civil Defence headquarters, said. Read more: Dhaka: Fire breaks out at packaging factory  No news of casualties was reported till the filing this report.  However, the reasons for the mishap and the exact extent of damage could not immediately be confirmed, Shahjahan said.