Statement on Ashulia Factory Explosion and Fire
We extend our deepest condolences to those killed and injured in the gas cylinder explosion and fire at Pretty Composite Textiles Ltd in Ashulia, Savar on Sunday, 20 September. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this incident.
Based on witness statements, discussions with factory management representatives and Safety Committee members, and preliminary post-incident observations made by the RMG Sustainability Council (RSC) engineers, a spark from an electric supply line near the boundary area may have triggered a gas (LPG/CNG) related fire and explosion. The fire spread to the adjacent LPG/CNG vehicle parking area, damaging several vehicles. As per the latest information available to the the RSC and Accord, at least 9 fatalities related to the incident have been reported so far.
The RSC will continue monitoring the situation in the affected area. Ensuring that every worker has access to a safe working environment remains a shared priority and responsibility for the RSC and the Accord. We reaffirm our dedication to working with all relevant stakeholders and partners to build and maintain a culture of health and safety that prevents such tragedies within the RMG sector in Bangladesh.
For more information, contact:
Related updates
Multiple brands are in the final stages of internal reviews and are expected to sign the agreements in the coming days.
Explore the International Accord framework agreement and its country-specific Addendums, the Bangladesh Safety Agreement, and the Pakistan Accord.
The International Accord conducted the first round of initial inspections at factories supplying to Pakistan Accord brands in Lahore and Karachi between 16 – 28 October 2023.
Global brands and trade unions have renewed the International Accord to enhance health and safety in supply chains in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and other countries in the future.
Accord Steering Committee members, Bestseller and IndustriALL, discuss the evolution, impact, and way forward for the collaboration between brands and unions since the first Accord was signed in 2013.
The Accord Secretariat has published the first list of suppliers covered under the Pakistan Accord comprising information on over 400 factories supplying 52 Pakistan Accord signatory brands.
Follow us on social media
