Over 40 school students fall sick after exposure to toxic chemical in Pabna

At least 42 students of a high school in Ishwardi upazila of Pabna fell ill today after being exposed to a toxic chemical.

The incident took place at Muladuli High School around 12:00pm. All the affected students are from class six.

Ishwardi Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Hasan Mohammad Shoaib said a bottle containing poison or a toxic chemical, likely a pesticide, broke inside the school washroom during school hours.

Initially, two students fell ill after coming into contact with the substance. Later, at least 40 other students started showing symptoms, apparently in a chain reaction, he said.

Receiving information, a team from Ishwardi Fire Service rushed to the spot, rescued the students, and admitted them to Ishwardi Upazila Health Complex.

The UNO said all the students are now out of danger.

“Most of the students have already recovered, and many have returned home. We are continuously monitoring the condition of those under observation,” he added.

The presence of a toxic or poisonous substance in the school washroom has raised serious concerns, the UNO said, adding that an investigation committee will be formed to determine how the "insecticide bottle" ended up there.

“Strict legal action will be taken against anyone found responsible or shown negligence in this matter,” he warned.