Fertiliser factory vandalised in N'ganj

Angered by the rumour, local people attacked the labourers of Hossain Chemical Complex at Dharmaganj, which produces TSP fertiliser, and vandalised water treatment plant, laboratory, officers' hostel and heavy equipment of the factory.

Members of Ansars -- Atiqur Rahman, 35, and Shahjahan, 24, -- and labourers Shah Alam, 25, Swapan, 30, and Ziaul Haque, 28, are among the injured.

Rahimuddin, a resident of the area, demanded relocation of the factory, saying that it has started production a few days ago and the toxic gas it is emitting has been causing sickness to the people in the area.

Denying the allegation, General Manager of the factory Tapan Chowdhury said that the factory does not emit toxic gas, rather it blows hot air sometimes and that the factory has mechanism to control toxic gas.

Managing Director Sayd Mehedi Hasan said the factory has been using modern technology to control toxic gas.

"The violent incident took place following a conflict between local BNP MP Muhammad Giasuddin and BNP leader Mohammad Ali," he added.

Officer-in-charge of Fatulla Police Station said the police have been trying to arrange a dialogue between local people and the factory authorities for a peaceful solution.