By: Camp Correspondent
16 June 2025
A water tank explosion in Camp-1W of Kutupalong has left five people injured—including a baby—and caused severe damage to several shelters, further compounding the hardships of displaced Rohingya families.
The blast occurred around 11:00 a.m. in the Lambasia area, completely destroying one shelter and damaging at least three others. Among the injured are four members of the same family, including a four-month-old baby, the child of HF Kamal. Also injured were Rohima Khatun (35), wife of Ediris (37), and the elderly couple Zala Ahmed (75) and Gultas Begum (70). All of them lived under the same roof.
“We just heard a loud sound, then water came rushing in. The whole shelter started shaking and then collapsed,” said one resident whose home was damaged in the blast.
BRAC volunteers were quick to respond, providing immediate assistance and referring the injured to a nearby hospital. Later, they were transferred to Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital for further treatment.
According to residents, the water tank had been in place for a long time and had deteriorated over the years. Made of cement and tin, it is believed to have burst due to pressure buildup. The water supply system is reportedly operated by BRAC.
People living nearby said the sound of the explosion was deafening, followed by a strong surge of water that flooded and damaged surrounding shelters.
With the tank destroyed, dozens of families who relied on it for daily water needs are now struggling to access clean water. Community members are urging authorities and aid organizations to repair the system urgently and ensure safe infrastructure to prevent future accidents.
“This is not just about water—it’s about safety,” said a community elder. “We cannot afford more risks in already difficult lives.”
