Tragedy Strikes in Bangladesh: Over 40 Lives Lost in Devastating Inferno
In a heartbreaking incident, a fierce blaze engulfed a six-storey structure in Dhaka, Bangladesh, claiming the lives of at least 43 individuals and leaving many others wounded. The health minister of the country confirmed the tragic toll of the fire that swept through the building late on Thursday.
At least 43 people were killed and dozens were injured in a devastating fire that swept through a six-storey building in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. According to the country's health minister, the tragic incident occurred late on Thursday.
The fire is believed to have started in a restaurant within the building before rapidly spreading to the other floors, as confirmed by fire service officials.
At least 43 people have lost their lives and 22 others are currently receiving treatment for burn injuries in hospitals, according to Health Minister Samanta Lal Sen. He shared this information with reporters during his visit to the Dhaka Medical College Hospital.
Sen also mentioned that all 22 individuals admitted with severe burns are in critical condition.
The cause of the fire that took two hours to control by 13 firefighting units was not immediately known, according to fire service officials.
Mohammad Altaf, a survivor of the fire, shared with reporters how he managed to escape through a broken window. Sadly, two of his coworkers did not make it out alive.
Altaf shared, "When the fire began in the front and shattered the glass, our cashier and servicemen helped evacuate everyone. Unfortunately, they both passed away. I had to break a window in the kitchen and jump out to save myself."
According to fire service officials, firefighters utilized a crane to save individuals from the burned building.
The fire at the building could have started due to a gas leak or stove, according to Brigadier General Main Uddin, the Director of Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defence. He mentioned to reporters that the building was hazardous, with gas cylinders present on every floor, including the staircases.
Firefighters rescue people from the deadly blaze on February 29, 2024.
Firefighters rescue people from the deadly blaze on February 29, 2024.
Intense attention on Bangladesh and the big clothing brands producing there has helped avoid more tragedies in the garment industry. A fire in 2012 and a building collapse in 2013 resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 workers.
In other industries catering to Bangladesh's growing domestic economy, there have been numerous tragic incidents in recent years where hundreds of people have lost their lives in fires. Dhaka, a densely populated city, has seen a surge in new constructions that often lack proper safety measures, leading to a high frequency of fires. These fires and explosions are often caused by faulty gas cylinders, air conditioners, and poor electrical wiring.
Editor's P/S:
The tragic fire in Dhaka is a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences that can arise from inadequate safety measures and infrastructure in densely populated urban areas. The loss of 43 lives and the critical injuries sustained by 22 others is a heartbreaking toll. The incident highlights the urgent need for stricter building codes, fire safety regulations, and regular inspections to prevent such tragedies in the future.
It is particularly alarming that this fire occurred in a building housing a restaurant, as gas leaks and faulty stoves are common causes of fires in Bangladesh. The presence of gas cylinders on every floor, including staircases, further exacerbated the situation. This incident underscores the importance of proper safety protocols, including the use of fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and emergency escape routes in public spaces.
