Production Halted at Three Chattogram Garment Factories Over Safety Risks

Authorities have suspended operations at three readymade garment (RMG) factories in Chattogram’s North Kattali area due to severe structural risks in their shared six-storey building.

The Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments (DIFE) issued the suspension following a technical assessment by the RMG Sustainability Council (RSC). The RSC identified significant structural weaknesses that could endanger lives, recommending that the building be vacated until permanent repairs are completed.

The affected units—HB Fashions Ltd, HKTG Garments Ltd, and Chumki Apparels Ltd—are located on Colonel Jones Road. While Chumki Apparels has been closed for seven years due to financial issues, the other two factories employ approximately 1,300 workers.

Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah emphasized that worker safety outweighs business interests, stating that Bangladesh cannot risk another tragedy like Rana Plaza.

DIFE officials suggested that while this building is unsafe, owners could relocate machinery to alternative premises to protect jobs. In response, HKTG Garments Managing Director Enamul Aziz Chowdhury claimed that 70% to 80% of renovations are already finished and criticized the sudden shutdown for impacting livelihoods. Owners of Chumki Apparels noted that repairs are progressing, while HB Fashions management was unavailable for comment.