Terming the Saval building collapse the biggest tragedy in the country’s apparel sector, BGMEA President M Atiqul Islam on Wednesday said they have formed three committees to oversee rehabilitation, compensation and proper treatment of the injured.
“We’re deeply saddened, spellbound. This is the biggest tragedy in the country’s readymade garment sector. We’ll do whatever is needed…,” he told an urgently called crowded press conference at the BGMEA Bhaban in the evening.
Directors and officials of the BGMEA (Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association) will lead the committees which will work 24 hours.
Former BGMEA presidents M Shafiul Islam Mohiuddin and Abdus Salam Murshedy were, among others, present.
He assured that they will bear the expenses of treatment for the injured workers and will compensate the families of the victims.
Responding to a question, Atiqul Islam said they are also looking for an answer to a question why the building collapsed.
Atiqul also said the owners did not take permission from the BGMEA to open the factories today though there was a directive to keep those closed fearing accident.
He said the BGMEA has opened two information centers – one at Savar and another at the BGMEA Bhaban – to collect information of the workers.
On requirement of blood, he said they are all donating blood and blood collection units have been opened both in Savar and BGMEA office.
He also informed that over 3000 workers were working under the five garment units housed inside the building.
The Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief has allocated Tk 4 crore for the deceased and injured of the Savar building collapse.
The family of each family will get Tk 20,000 while each injured will get Tk 500, said a PID handout.
Source: UNBConnect
