Why transformer explosions galore in Bangladesh

Transformer explosions in Bangladesh present a grave threat to lives and property, stemming from the countrys persistent high demand for electricity coupled with an often-inadequate supply. Despite a reduction in the number of incidents in recent years, the risks remain substantial, primarily due to aging infrastructure, overloading, and inadequate maintenance practices.

In the fiscal year 2013-14, Bangladesh experienced a staggering 39,000 transformer explosions, resulting in a significant financial setback. The Power Development Boards report reveals that these explosions caused a loss of Tk290 crore, emphasizing the severe consequences of these incidents. While the numbers have decreased since then, the severity of the explosions and their potential implications persist as many transformers across the country continue to age, face overloading, and suffer from a lack of proper maintenance.

The implications of transformer explosions extend beyond financial losses, with fatalities and injuries being tragically common outcomes. A striking example occurred in June 2021 when a gas leak triggered a catastrophic explosion in a building storing transformers in Moghbazar, Dhaka. This incident claimed the lives of at least seven people and left over 100 injured, highlighting the immediate and devastating impact on human lives. Similarly, in March 2023, a transformer explosion in a multi-storied building in Gulistan, Dhaka, resulted in 16 fatalities and over 120 injuries. These incidents underscore the vulnerability of densely populated urban areas where transformers are often situated close to residential and commercial structures.
Transformers play a pivotal role in converting high-voltage electricity from power plants into lower-voltage levels for use in homes and businesses. However, several factors contribute to transformer failures, including overloading, internal faults such as short circuits, oil ignition in transformers using oil for cooling, and, rarely, design or manufacturing defects. Overloading, in particular, can lead to overheating and failure, releasing pressure or gases that pose a threat to the surrounding environment.

Given the high population density in Bangladesh, ensuring the regular and proper maintenance of transformers is imperative to prevent such incidents. Regular maintenance practices involve detecting and rectifying faults, leaks, or damages in transformers and ensuring that they operate within their rated capacity. Proper handling of transformers is equally crucial, involving measures such as avoiding placement near flammable materials, ensuring adequate ventilation and insulation, and strict adherence to safety guidelines.

While the government of Bangladesh has made commendable efforts to develop and enhance the efficiency of the electrical sector, with visible reductions in load shedding and an increasing focus on renewable energy sources, these efforts could be undermined if existing transformers are not adequately cared for and replaced when necessary. The continued occurrence of transformer explosions poses a serious threat to the lives and property of the people, necessitating comprehensive measures to mitigate the risks associated with transformer failures.

In light of the significant financial losses incurred, amounting to Tk290 crore in the fiscal year 2013-14 alone, the government must adopt a multifaceted approach to address this issue. Stricter regulations for transformer maintenance, periodic inspections, and the replacement of aging transformers should be prioritized. Public awareness campaigns on the dangers of transformer explosions and the importance of reporting any irregularities should be initiated to foster a sense of responsibility among the citizens.

Moreover, the government should consider collaborating with international experts and organizations in electrical safety to enhance the countrys capacity to address these challenges effectively. International partnerships can bring valuable expertise, technological advancements, and best practices in transformer management, contributing to a more robust and resilient electrical infrastructure in Bangladesh.

While Bangladesh strives for a more developed and efficient electrical sector, it is crucial to prioritize the maintenance and replacement of transformers. Transformer explosions are not only a financial burden, as highlighted by the Tk290 crore loss in the fiscal year 2013-14, but more importantly, they pose a direct threat to the lives and well-being of the people. Through concerted efforts, including regulatory measures, public awareness, and international collaboration, Bangladesh can mitigate the risks associated with transformer failures and pave the way for a safer and more resilient electrical infrastructure.

The writer is a former ICCR Scholar, Columnist, Researcher and holds a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from NIT Durgapur, India