In Ishwardi, Pabna, over 100 workers at a handicraft factory became ill after eating iftar on Monday night (March 16). Among them, at least 26 workers were admitted to the Ishwardi Upazila Health Complex with serious symptoms. The incident took place in Munshidpur, Dashuria Union.
According to local sources, BD Creation Company had organized the iftar for factory workers. The menu included puffed rice, chickpeas, piyaju (onion fritters), potato chops, and saline. Shortly after eating, many workers experienced stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, with some collapsing on the ground. Coworkers quickly rushed them to the hospital.
One affected worker, Jamela Khatun, said:
“After eating iftar, I suddenly felt nauseous and started vomiting. I also felt dizzy and fainted. My colleagues took me to the hospital. I think the food may have been contaminated.”
Doctors at Ishwardi Upazila Health Complex reported that patients are receiving necessary treatment and that most of their conditions are currently stable. They added that food samples need to be tested to determine the exact cause of the illness.
OC Mominuzzaman of Ishwardi Police Station said:
“We visited the hospital immediately after hearing about the incident and checked on the patients. The matter will be investigated and appropriate action will be taken.”
The factory authorities are taking the matter seriously and have launched an internal investigation following the sudden illness of so many workers.
