A devastating fire in a multi-storey building in Bangladesh has claimed the lives of at least 43 individuals, as confirmed by the country’s health minister.
Reports indicate that the fire erupted in a restaurant around 22:00 local time (16:00 GMT) on Thursday in Dhaka, the capital city.
Local media sources report that seventy-five individuals were rescued, with many others rushed to hospitals for treatment.
The fire, which began in a restaurant, was brought under control after two hours, and investigations into its cause are ongoing.
Health Minister Samanta Lal Sen stated that at least 33 individuals, including women and children, were pronounced dead at the Dhaka Medical College Hospital, while 10 others succumbed to their injuries at the city’s primary burns hospital.
Additionally, twenty-two individuals remain in critical condition.
The blaze occurred at the Kacchi Bhai restaurant, situated within a building complex with seven floors, housing various other establishments including restaurants, clothing shops, and mobile phone stores.
Brigadier General Main Uddin, head of the Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defence, suggested that the fire may have originated from a gas leak or stove within the building.
He highlighted the hazardous conditions within the building, with gas cylinders present on every floor, even on staircases.
Survivors recounted harrowing experiences during the fire. Sohel, a restaurant manager, described seeing smoke on the sixth floor and witnessing a rush of people seeking safety.
Some individuals resorted to using a water pipe to descend the building, sustaining injuries in the process.
Mohammad Altaf, another survivor, narrowly escaped through a broken window.
He recounted the bravery of his colleagues who assisted in rescue efforts, noting that two of them tragically lost their lives later.
Fires in commercial and residential buildings are a frequent occurrence in Bangladesh, often attributed to poor safety practices and lax enforcement of regulations.
Source-BBC
