At least ten people were injured in a devastating fire that broke out in two phases at an LPG filling station in the Kolatoli area of Cox's Bazar town last night (25 February).

According to on-duty doctors at Cox's Bazar Sadar Hospital, six of the injured were shifted to Chattogram Medical College Hospital in critical condition.

Officer-in-Charge (OC) Samiuddin of Cox's Bazar Sadar Police Station confirmed the incident but did not provide further details.

Witnesses said the first blaze erupted around 9:30pm at the N Alam LPG Gas. Although firefighters managed to bring the initial fire under control within about half an hour, a sudden explosion occurred around 10:30pm, triggering a second, more intense fire.

The explosion caused flames to spread rapidly to nearby areas, while toxic gas reportedly dispersed across several kilometres, creating panic among residents. Several houses adjacent to the pump were also damaged by the fire.

Earlier in the evening, a gas leak had been detected at the pump and reported to the fire service. Local authorities made public announcements urging residents to move away from the site and avoid igniting any flames.

Fire Service personnel deployed four units to the scene, while the Bangladesh Army sent two teams along with two water browsers to assist in firefighting efforts. The blaze was brought under control around 12:30am, but fear and tension gripped the area.

Traffic movement in the vicinity was suspended, and army personnel worked to prevent crowds from gathering near the hazardous site.

No official statement has yet been issued by the Fire Service authorities.

FP/A