Tests to reveal reason behind explosion: Home minister

Home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal speaks to reporters at the blast site in the capital's Siddique Bazar area on 8 March 2023.Dipu Malakar

Home minister Asaduzzaman Khan has said the authorities have been conducting necessary tests to know the actual reason behind the blast in the capital’s Siddique Bazar area, and they would be able to reach a decision once the tests are completed.

He came up with the statement while talking to reporters after visiting the blast site on Wednesday noon.

The home boss said the building turned into a risky installation after the explosion. The basement and ground floor have particularly suffered massive damages.

The firefighters are carrying out rescue drives with utmost caution while the police, army and other forces are assisting them, he added.

A massive blast took place there around 4:45 pm on Tuesday afternoon, leaving 18 dead and more than a hundred injured.