Dhaka: Adviser to the ministries of Shipping and Labour and Employment Brig Gen (retd) Dr. M Sakhawat Hussain has extended financial support amounting to Tk 1.20 crore to the families of individuals who tragically lost their lives in recent ship accidents. The distribution event took place at BSC Tower, where cheques were handed over to the families of the deceased from incidents involving MT Banglar Jyoti and MT Banglar Saurabh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, each family of the deceased cadets and sailors received Tk 30 lakh. Dr. Sakhawat expressed his deep condolences and prayed for the eternal peace of the deceased, while reaffirming his commitment to assist those impacted by such tragedies. He emphasized the government's unwavering support for the affected families and highlighted the role of the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC) in aiding their employment and education.
Dr. Sakhawat praised BSC for setting a commendable example in the maritime community by extending financial assistance. He described BSC as a vital and profitable government entity that significantly contributes to national development through international-standard shipping services and advancements in the maritime sector. Furthermore, he mentioned plans to purchase two LNG ships to broaden BSC's activities and enhance profitability.
The tragic fire incident on September 30, 2024, aboard Bangladesh Shipping Corporation's MT Banglar Jyoti at Dolphin Jetty resulted in the deaths of Deck Cadet Saurabh Kumar Saha, highly skilled auto-mechanic Md. Nurul Islam, and daily-based fitter Harun-or-Rashid. On October 5, Md. Sadiq Mia sustained injuries in a fire accident on MT Banglar Saurabh and, despite receiving medical treatment, later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
In the aftermath of these incidents, BSC promptly provided financial assistance of Tk 50,000 to each bereaved family and extended support for funeral arrangements. The event was chaired by BSC Managing Director Commodore Mahmudul Malek, with Senior Secretary of the Shipping Ministry Mohammed Yousuf attending as a special guest.