A major leak has developed in a Titas Gas main transmission pipeline beneath the Arial Khan River in Kazirchar village of Masua union, Katiadi upazila, Kishoreganj. The report, published on August 1, said gas bubbles were continuously surfacing on the river while a strong gas smell spread through the air, alarming local residents.

Residents alleged that the pipeline was damaged during an attempt to obtain an illegal gas connection for a lime-making factory beside the river, though the allegation has not been confirmed by an investigation. Local residents, representatives and Titas Gas sources said the pipeline was installed nearly three decades ago to supply gas from Narsingdi to Kishoreganj. Gas began escaping at high pressure after a hole formed at a welding joint.

Repair supervisor Noman Mia said the large hole has made the work difficult, with 20 to 25 workers operating continuously for several weeks. Upazila Executive Officer Shamima Afroz Marliz inspected the site and said the factory’s legal documents would be checked. An investigation will determine whether an attempted illegal connection caused the leak.