Stage collapse, stampede mar Ctg relief programme

Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and several senior political leaders escaped unhurt after a temporary stage collapsed during a flood relief distribution programme in Chattogram’s Chandanaish upazila on Friday, while at least 10 beneficiaries were later injured in a stampede at the venue.

The incident occurred at around 11:30am in Dohazari municipality as relief was being distributed among flood-affected families.

Eyewitnesses said the finance minister had just stepped onto the stage after arriving at the venue when a large number of local leaders, activists and guests also climbed onto it. Unable to bear the excessive weight, the structure suddenly gave way.

Those who fell from the stage included Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain, Chattogram-14 MP Jasim Uddin Ahmed, Patiya MP Enamul Haque and Boalkhali MP Ershad Ullah, along with several other political leaders present at the programme.

Chandanaish Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Abdur Rahman said the stage collapsed shortly after the minister went up to distribute relief.
“Everyone on the stage fell, but no one was injured,” he said.

After the situation was brought under control, the relief distribution programme resumed.

However, after the finance minister left the venue, local leaders continued distributing relief, triggering a rush among beneficiaries that resulted in a stampede.

At least 10 people, including women and elderly beneficiaries, were injured in the ensuing commotion.

The injured included Rasheda Akhtar, 60, of Burma Colony in Dohazari, Ayub Ali of Khagria, Urmi Akhtar of Guchchagram and Ayesha Akhtar of Ullapara in Dohazari.

The injured were admitted to Chandanaish Upazila Health Complex for treatment.