Barisal Food Deptt officials face showcause notice

Meanwhile, the Food Department has dumped underground burnt methyl powder after over 100 children and old people fell sick inhaling toxic gas emitted from burning powder.

Barisal City Corporation (BCC) Commissioner K M Shahidullah and Regional Controller of Food Tabibul Huda told this correspondent that the authorities had taken the decision following complaints lodged by local people.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

However, a lecturer of the Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital Pharmacology Department Jamaluddin warned that water of shallow and deep tube-wells in the surrounding vast area might be contaminated due to unscientific dumping of methyl powder, scientifically known as Malathion powder. He told this correspondent that scientifically one-fourth bleaching powder should be mixed with entire methyl powder while dumping underground.

Gradually inhabitants of the area who left their houses in panic are coming back. The panic will persist for sometime. Sources in the Medical Department said no death has been reported although more than 100 people took first aid from clinics and hospitals in the city. Patients of nearby Seba Clinic, Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital and Islami Bank Hospital also complained of respiratory problem inhaling the toxic gas.