Nine workers dead in Sitakunda shipbreaking accident despite prior safety warnings
Photo Collected
SITAKUNDA, Bangladesh — At least nine workers died of toxic gas inhalation at a ship-breaking yard in Sitakunda on Friday, reigniting concerns over the lack of safety protocols in Bangladesh’s hazardous ship-recycling industry. The incident occurred at Ferdous Steel Ship Recycling Industries, where workers were reportedly exposed to lethal gases while dismantling a decommissioned liquid natural gas (LNG) tanker, the MT Rasi.
Data from the Bangladesh Institute of Labor Studies (BILS) reveals that at least 149 workers have died in ship-breaking accidents since 2015, including three earlier this year. The latest tragedy follows a series of government warnings; the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments (DIFE) had inspected the facility in February, identifying safety violations, including inadequate risk assessments and labor law breaches. DIFE subsequently filed a lawsuit against the shipyard in July, yet the facility remained operational until the fatal incident.
Industry investigators, led by the Ministry of Industries, have begun an inquiry to determine the exact cause of the gas accumulation. Explosives Directorate inspectors detected hydrogen sulfide at the site shortly after the accident. Professor Mohammad Mizanur Rahman of the Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology explained that hydrogen sulfide is a highly toxic, colorless gas often found in confined spaces where stagnant water and organic waste decompose. High concentrations can lead to rapid unconsciousness and death.
Ferdous Wahid, the owner of the shipyard, denied allegations of negligence, asserting that safety protocols were followed and that workers were equipped with necessary gear. However, labor rights activists and union leaders have long argued that ship-breaking yards frequently fail to provide essential personal protective equipment such as helmets, gloves, and respiratory protection, and often lack rigorous oversight.
Of the 84 registered ship-breaking yards in Bangladesh, only 23 are classified as “Green Yards” that adhere to international environmental and safety standards, according to the Bangladesh Ship Breakers and Recyclers Association.
As of Saturday, authorities had released eight of the victims’ bodies to their families without post-mortem examinations, citing that the cause of death—toxic gas exposure—was already apparent. Only one body underwent an autopsy at the Chittagong Medical College Hospital.
While multiple investigative committees have been formed by the Ministry of Industries, the local district administration, and the ship-breaking industry association, no criminal charges have been filed by the victims’ families. Police Superintendent Masud Alam stated that discussions with the bereaved families are ongoing, noting that police are prepared to file a case on behalf of the state if the families decline to do so due to concerns over potential pressure from the shipyard owners.
Tapan Dutta, convener of the Ship-breaking Workers Trade Union Forum, has called for a thorough investigation to ensure accountability and demanded adequate compensation for the families of the deceased. The incident underscores persistent systemic failures in enforcing safety standards, despite established regulations mandating gas testing, fire safety, and professional equipment checks before any dismantling operations commence.
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