Over 100 workers hospitalised after drinking water at Gazipur factory

More than 100 garment workers have been hospitalised with symptoms of vomiting and stomach pain after consuming drinking water at a factory in Gazipur.

The incident occurred on Sunday at Reaz Export Apparels Limited in the Signboard area, said AKM Johirul Islam, superintendent of police for Gazipur Industrial Zone-2.

Factory General Manager Md Rajan said operations have been suspended and a holiday declared following the incident.

According to police, around 2,800 workers had reported to duty as usual in the morning. Many of them drank water provided by the factory, after which a number of workers began experiencing stomach discomfort. Approximately 150 people fell ill.

The affected workers were rushed to Tairunnessa Memorial Medical College and Hospital by the factory authorities and colleagues.

Dr Shah Ali of the hospital’s emergency department said, “We have admitted 67 patients, including 11 pregnant women. They are being treated in the gynaecology ward under intensive care. Around 70 to 75 others were discharged after receiving first aid.”

“We are deeply concerned about the cause of this incident,” said GM Rajan. “Efforts are under way to determine exactly what happened.”

Inspector Ismail Hossain of Gazipur Industrial Police-2 said arrangements have been made to ensure proper medical care for the affected workers in coordination with the factory management.

SP Johirul added most of the workers are now in stable condition following treatment.