Two Workers Die Following Boiler Explosion at Illegal Rajbari Oil Factory

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Two factory workers have died following a boiler explosion at an oil production facility in Rajbari’s Goalanda, four days after sustaining severe injuries in the incident. The workers, identified as 24-year-old Sohel Rana and 16-year-old Shaon Munda, succumbed to their wounds while undergoing treatment at the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery in Dhaka.

The fatal blast occurred last Thursday morning at the Dhaka Pyrolysis Company, located in the Bishwanathpara area of Goalanda’s Uzanchar Union. The facility, which specializes in producing furnace oil, black carbon, and steel wire, was processing old tires when the boiler exploded. Both workers were severely burned—Rana sustained burns to approximately 60 percent of his body, while Munda suffered burns covering 70 percent. They were initially rushed to the Goalanda Upazila Health Complex before being transferred to the specialized burn unit in the capital.

Local police confirmed the deaths on Monday, noting that they have been in contact with the victims’ families. Officer-in-Charge (OC) Shafiqul Islam of Goalanda Ghat Police Station stated that formal legal proceedings will commence once the victims’ families file a complaint following the funeral rites.

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The incident has sparked public outcry, with local residents alleging that the factory has operated in violation of safety and environmental regulations for years. According to community members, the plant was established five years ago under the influence of local political figures, despite its location in a densely populated area. Residents further claimed that the factory’s operating license had expired and that it had long been a source of environmental hazards. The burning of old tires regularly released toxic black smoke and noxious odors, allegedly damaging nearby homes, vegetation, and agricultural land.

Goalanda Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Sathi Das acknowledged the mounting complaints regarding environmental pollution and regulatory non-compliance. She confirmed that authorities are aware the factory’s license has expired and stated that she has formally requested the Department of Environment and higher authorities to shut down the plant and take necessary corrective action.