Tragic Chemical Drum Explosion Claims Life of Young Boy in Bengal's Bhangar
Synopsis
In a devastating turn of events in Bhangar, West Bengal, a young boy lost his life due to injuries sustained from a chemical drum explosion. The incident has sparked outrage among local residents demanding accountability for safety negligence.
Key Takeaways
Tragic loss: Nine-year-old Sadiqul Ahmed dies from injuries sustained in a chemical explosion.
Community outrage: Residents express anger over safety negligence.
Ongoing investigation: Calls for accountability regarding hazardous materials management.
Stable conditions: The other injured children are reported to be recovering.
Official response: Local authorities are involved in the aftermath of the incident.
Kolkata, Feb 25 (NationPress) A tragic incident unfolded in the Bhangar region of West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district as one of the three children seriously injured in a chemical drum explosion succumbed to his injuries early Wednesday morning.
The victim, nine-year-old Sadiqul Ahmed from Kharagachi, sustained 95 percent of his injuries during the blast that occurred on February 17. He was receiving treatment at MR Bangur Hospital in Kolkata but unfortunately passed away at approximately 6 a.m. His family is heartbroken following the loss of their son.
The other two children who were also injured in the explosion are currently reported to be in stable condition.
In the wake of this tragedy, local residents have voiced their outrage, highlighting that a drum containing about 200 litres of light diesel oil (LDO) was carelessly left on the roadside for road repairs. They are demanding answers as to why such a hazardous item was left unattended in a densely populated area.
Concerns regarding the absence of safety measures are being raised. Residents believe that had the drum not been left there, Sadiqul’s life could have been spared, along with the injuries sustained by the other children.
It is noteworthy that on February 17, four children were injured when the chemical drum exploded while they were playing nearby. One child, overwhelmed by the pain, jumped into a nearby pond. Three of the injured minors with severe burn injuries were promptly transported to MR Bangur Hospital for emergency care.
The incident occurred during ongoing repair work on the seven-kilometre stretch of road from Ghatakpukur to Madhya Kharagachi in the Canning Purba Assembly constituency.
Upon learning of the incident, Deputy Commissioner of Bhangar Police Division, Saikat Ghosh, along with Trinamool MLA from Canning East, Saokat Molla, visited the site. They played a crucial role in ensuring the treatment of the three injured children at MR Bangur Hospital. Sadly, one of the boys succumbed after a week-long battle for his life.
Point of View
The tragic death of a child due to negligence surrounding hazardous materials highlights a critical public safety issue. The community's outcry for accountability reflects a growing demand for stricter regulations to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the explosion in Bhangar?
The explosion was caused by a drum filled with approximately 200 litres of light diesel oil, which was left unattended on the roadside.
How many children were injured in the incident?
A total of four children were injured in the explosion, with one minor, Sadiqul Ahmed, sadly succumbing to his injuries.
What are the current conditions of the surviving children?
The two other children who were critically injured are currently reported to be stable.
What actions have local authorities taken following the incident?
Local authorities, including the Deputy Commissioner of Bhangar Police Division, have visited the site and facilitated the admission of the injured children to the hospital.
Is there a call for increased safety measures in the area?
Yes, local residents are demanding accountability and questioning the lack of safety measures regarding the handling of hazardous materials.
