Massive Fire Kills 43 in Dhaka Building: Bangladesh’s Capital in Tragedy
Late on Thursday, a devastating fire engulfed a six-storey building in Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, claiming the lives of at least 43 people and leaving dozens injured. The fire, which originated in a restaurant, quickly spread to other floors, causing chaos and panic among the occupants.
Health Minister Samanta Lal Sen revealed that 43 individuals lost their lives in the tragic incident, while 22 others are currently receiving treatment at hospitals for severe burn wounds. All 22 patients admitted with critical burns are fighting for their lives, highlighting the severity of the situation.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, although fire service officials managed to bring it under control after two hours of relentless efforts by 13 firefighting units. Survivor Mohammad Altaf recounted his narrow escape, describing how he and his coworkers managed to evacuate everyone before succumbing to the flames themselves. Altaf bravely broke a window in the kitchen and jumped to safety.
Firefighters played a crucial role in rescuing people from the charred building, utilizing a crane to reach those trapped inside. Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defence Director, Brigadier General Main Uddin, suggested that a gas leak or stove malfunction could have sparked the deadly blaze. He also highlighted the dangerous nature of the building, with gas cylinders present on every floor, even on the staircases.
This tragic incident once again brings attention to the safety concerns surrounding Bangladesh’s industries. While intense scrutiny has been placed on the garment sector since the catastrophic fire in 2012 and building collapse in 2013, which claimed the lives of over 1,200 workers, other industries have not received equal emphasis on safety measures. The country’s booming domestic economy has led to numerous fires in recent years, resulting in hundreds of deaths.
Dhaka, with its dense population and rapid urbanization, has become a hotspot for fires. The city’s construction boom often overlooks proper safety measures, leading to accidents caused by faulty gas cylinders, air conditioners, and inadequate electrical wiring. The lack of attention to safety in industries catering to the domestic market poses a significant risk to workers and residents alike.
As the investigation into the cause of the Dhaka building fire continues, it is crucial for authorities and businesses to prioritize safety measures and ensure that tragedies like this are prevented in the future. The loss of innocent lives serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved safety regulations and enforcement across all industries in Bangladesh.