Leaders and activists of Sylhet district and city Awami League (AL), a number of organisations from Dhaka, Sylhet and Sunamganj and locals blamed the government for allowing the 'incompetent' company to destroy the gas resources repeatedly.

They demanded scrapping of the contract with Niko and action against it for massive destruction of gas and environment, and creating serious health hazards.

Sylhet district and city AL held a rally at the city's court point yesterday to protest 'government failure' to protect the gas field from destruction. The rally also demanded proper compensation to the affected people.

Speakers at the rally alleged powerful quarters within the government are backing Niko although its negligence and inefficiency have caused a national disaster. This is why no action has yet been taken against the company.

They warned of tougher action programmes if the contract with Niko is not scrapped immediately.

Sylhet Bibhag Unnayan Sangram Parishad, a Dhaka-based forum of Sylhet Division people, yesterday started a long march towards Tengratila from Sylhet city. On the way, the parishad held rallies at different points to protest Niko's activities and demand action against it.

Bangladesh Paribesh Andolan (Bapa) from Dhaka also formed a human chain near the gas field to raise similar demands.

Bapa also arranged a medical camp at the site for treatment of people suffering from various ailments from pollution due to the gas field explosion and fire.

District AL chief ANM Shafique chaired the rally while city AL President and Mayor of the city corporation Badar Uddin Ahmed Kamran was among the speakers.

Tengratila Dabi Aday Sangram Parishad yesterday hoisted black flags in the area to press for adequate compensation to the victims.

Niko's project director along with some drilling experts yesterday visited the proposed site of the relief well and gave instructions for preparatory tasks.

The flames at the gas field leapt up to about 250 feet yesterday, witnesses said.