Gas Reserves Potential Identified in Inani; Section 144 Imposed Within 200 Metres
A fire caused by gas escaping from underground during the installation of a deep tubewell in Inani, a tourist area in Ukhia, Cox’s Bazar, remained unextinguished even after nearly 72 hours. The fire broke out on the morning of Tuesday, October 27, and has continued to burn since then. Several Fire Service units have been working to control the situation, but the fire cannot be extinguished because gas continues to escape from the ground.
Meanwhile, a 200-metre security perimeter is being established around the source of the fire to ensure public safety. On Thursday, October 29, Ukhia Upazila Nirbahi Officer and Executive Magistrate Panna Akter imposed Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898. Until further notice, public entry and movement within approximately 200 metres of the site have been prohibited.
According to the upazila administration’s order, the incident occurred at a house near the Inani Chhoto Khal Bridge in Ward No. 6 of Jaliapalong Union. During the installation of a tubewell, a pipe was driven approximately 1,000 feet underground. Gas then escaped from the ground and caught fire.
As the incident raised the possibility of natural gas reserves in the area, a technical team from Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Limited (BAPEX) visited the site and provided necessary advice.
BAPEX experts warned that forcibly extinguishing the fire or trying to stop the gas from escaping could cause gas to emerge through other underground cracks, making the situation more dangerous. They advised allowing the fire to continue burning until the gas flow and pressure decrease. Meanwhile, samples have been collected from the site to identify the nature and source of the gas.
The administration’s order also prohibits lighting fires, smoking, using matches or lighters, and engaging in any activity that could create sparks in the high-risk area. Legal action will be taken against anyone who violates the restrictions.
Experts are continuing to monitor the situation to determine the actual cause of the fire and whether underground gas reserves exist in the area. The administration has advised local residents and tourists to stay away from the risk zone until the situation returns to normal.
