In a dramatic turn of events at Bagerhat District Sadar Hospital, an ambulance experienced a terrifying malfunction today. Shortly after noon, the vehicle caught fire due to a suspected gas cylinder leak, culminating in an explosion that spread flames to several motorcycles parked nearby. Despite the chaos, authorities confirmed that no patients, doctors, or hospital staff were harmed.
The incident, which unfolded near the hospital's main entrance, left bystanders in shock as the fire rapidly engulfed the area. The ambulance driver was among those injured but received immediate medical attention. Eyewitnesses reported the sudden ignition of the ambulance, followed by a powerful blast that spread the fire to the surrounding vehicles.
Firefighters from Bagerhat Fire Service responded swiftly, arriving on the scene within minutes and managing to extinguish the blaze. According to Bagerhat Fire Service Deputy Director Md Saidurzzaman, the team was alerted to the fire around noon and had it under control shortly thereafter. Hospital Superintendent Asim Kumar Samaddar confirmed that the fire originated from the ambulance and affected eight motorcycles, some of which belonged to hospital staff.
The local administration is taking the incident seriously. Deputy Commissioner Golam Mohammad Baten assured that appropriate measures would be implemented following a thorough investigation. The Bagerhat Red Crescent Society's General Secretary, Mahabur Rahman Tutul, noted that while the precise cause of the gas leak and the full extent of the damage are yet to be determined, an investigation is underway to uncover these details.
This incident underscores the potential risks associated with medical equipment and the importance of stringent safety protocols in healthcare facilities. The swift response by emergency services also highlights the readiness and effectiveness of the local fire department in managing such crises.
