A devastating fire in Bangladesh tore through a six-storey building housing restaurants where families with children were dining, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 46 lives and injuries to many others, as confirmed by the health minister on Friday. The blaze, suspected to have been caused by a gas leak or stove, started in a biryani restaurant and quickly spread in the capital, requiring the efforts of 13 firefighting units for two hours to bring it under control.
Health Minister Samanta Lal Sen reported that 22 individuals with burns were being treated in hospitals, all in critical condition. Expressing shock and sadness, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina directed prompt treatment for the injured and emphasized the importance of adhering to construction regulations to prevent such calamities in the future.
Survivor Mohammad Altaf recounted his harrowing escape from the fire, which claimed the lives of two of his colleagues. Firefighters used cranes to rescue people from the building, and efforts were ongoing to clear debris and extinguish any remaining embers. Families of the deceased gathered at the hospital to receive the bodies of their loved ones, mourning their tragic loss.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, with concerns raised about the lack of safety features in the building such as fire exits and ventilation systems. The incident has prompted criticism from opposition parties, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement of regulations to ensure public safety.
Fires are a common occurrence in densely populated areas of Dhaka, where rapid urbanization has led to the construction of buildings with inadequate safety measures. The tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in all industries to prevent further loss of life in similar incidents.