Titas Gas investigating committee has found Narayanganj mosque’s extended part was built on a gas transmission pipeline.
Abdul Wahab Talukder, head of the Titas Gas probe committee and Managing Director (planning) of the Dhaka office, said this in a press briefing after completing excavation searching for a possible source of gas under the ground that caused an explosion killing at least 27 people.
During construction of the extension of the mosque gas pipeline underground came in contact with the ground causing damage to its wrapping which leaked gas, Talukder said.
Six holes were found in the damaged area of the wrapping.
Moreover, there was no approval from relevant authorities to extend the mosque, he added.
Regarding allegations of Titas officials seeking bribe for repairs on the leaking pipes, Talukder said they are investigating the allegation raised by the mosque’s governing body and no one will be let off the hook.
Titas Gas will submit an investigation report by Thursday, he added.
On September 4, a blast of six air-conditioners in at Bitus Salat mosque at Fatullah, Narayanganj killed at least 27 people.
Locals blamed the Titas Gas for the explosion. Allegedly, the explosion happened due to gas leakage.
Later, a five-member probe committee was formed by Titas Gas Transmission and Distribution Company Ltd to look into the matter.
