Man killed, 20 injured after tanker explodes at Rangpur LPG station

An explosion at an LPG station in Rangpur city has killed a man and injured at least 20 others.

The incident occurred around 12pm on Saturday at the “CO Bazar LPG Station”, according to Rangpur Fire Service Deputy Director Badsha Masud Alam.

The blast severely damaged at least 20 vehicles, including ambulances, private cars, and motorcycles that were at the station. Doors, windows, and structures of several nearby buildings also collapsed.

The dead man, identified by his first name as Sohag, was an engineer. He and several others were reportedly working to repair the gas tanker at the time of the incident.

The identities of the injured were not immediately available. All of them are currently receiving treatment at Rangpur Medical College Hospital.

Alim Al Said Khokon, who witnessed the incident, said the gas tanker at the LPG station had developed a leak about a week ago, prompting authorities to halt operations. Repairs had been ongoing since Saturday morning, when the explosion suddenly occurred.

Four workers involved in the repair work are among those injured. Sohag was declared dead after being taken to Rangpur Medical College Hospital.

Following the blast, four firefighting units rushed to the scene and began rescue operations. Fire Service officials said the blast occurred due to pressure buildup inside the tanker during the repair work.

“A loud explosion was heard while the out-of-service tanker was being repaired. Smoke spread rapidly throughout the area. The extent of the damage is yet to be determined,” said Fire Service official Badsha.

Sobahan Molla, senior warrant officer from Rangpur Army Camp, also visited the scene. “The explosion caused significant damage to nearby homes and vehicles. The Army is working to investigate the cause of the incident,” he said.

He added that if any negligence is found on the part of the authorities, they will be held accountable.