Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) on Thursday suspended the membership of five readymade garment (RMG) factories in connection with Wednesday’s Rana Plaza collapse in Savar.“As the five factories – Ether Tex Ltd., New Wave Bottoms Ltd, New Wave Style Ltd, Phantom Apparels Ltd and Phantom Tac Ltd kept the factories open in violation with BGMEA’s order, their membership has been suspended,” BGMEA vice president Shahidullah Azim told a press briefing at its office.
The BGMEA also demanded that those responsible for the tragic accident be brought to justice.
BGMEA vice president (finance) Riaz Bin Mahmud said 1,810 workers have been rescued so far from the debris of the collapsed building.
“Out of the rescued workers, 1,128 have been released after treatment in various hospitals. The remaining 709 are undergoing treatment. BGMEA is closely monitoring the treatment of the injured workers,” he said.
The BGMEA has formed three teams with its directors and officials to observe the situation round-the-clock, Mahmud added.
Mahmud said the BGMEA will compensate the families of the deceased workers. “We’re doing our best for the rehabilitation of the families of the deceased in a coordinated way. We’ll discuss the issue with the government.”
“BGMEA thanks the law enforcers, firefighters, army, Rab and relevant government agencies for their prompt rescue drive,” Mahmud said.
“BGMEA also thanks opposition leader Khaleda Zia for visiting the spot today (Thursday),” he said adding, “She has also withdrawn the hartal on Wednesday. A blood donation programme has been arranged at the opposition headquarters to support the treatment of the injured workers. Thanks to the honourable opposition leader for such commiseration.”
“The BGMEA is also urging the workers to have patience. We’re urging the worker brothers and sisters to have patience to tackle the situation, and to continue the work in the factories,” said Mahmud. UNB
