Raise funds for Savar victims

By S. Islam Dhaka
8 May 2005, 18:00 PM
The factory collapse at Savar will remain as a black chapter in the country's history. 'Safety First' should be the prime consideration for all factories. We have had enough mishaps in the industrial sector resulting in loss of valuable lives. It is a pity that no one shows serious concern over these deaths.

The pictures and stories of the Savar aftermath are so horrific and haunting that one wonders how safe people are in the mushrooming unplanned concrete 'death-traps' of Dhaka and its outskirts. The victims' families, the survivors (some with broken and missing limbs) are now passing their days in extreme hardship without salary, relief or any financial assistance. The govt higher-ups have visited the site but what steps have they taken to compensate the dead and support the survivors? This is a serious crisis and should not be ignored by sending mere condolence messages. Doesn't the govt have some obligation towards the victims?

The irresponsible and cruel behaviour of the employers is absolutely shocking. For how long do they think they can hide? I would like to appeal to the BGMEA, NGOs and other social bodies to come up with some immediate relief operation plan. If necessary, they can start a 'Relief Fund' where people from all walks of life can contribute to help rehabilitate the victims' families and the survivors.