Deadly Blaze Strikes Six-Story Mall in Dhaka
At least 43 people lost their lives and dozens were injured in a devastating fire that engulfed a six-story shopping mall in the heart of Dhaka, Bangladesh’s capital. Health Minister Samanta Lal Sen confirmed the tragic incident, which occurred late Thursday night in the downtown area.
Rescue Efforts and Casualties
Firefighters worked tirelessly to rescue survivors and retrieve bodies from the burning building. By early Friday, the death toll had reached 43, with 22 individuals receiving treatment for their injuries. The fire, believed to have originated in a popular restaurant on the first floor, trapped numerous people within the mall.
Cause of the Fire and Response
The exact cause of the fire remains unknown as investigations are ongoing. The victims, including women and children, were rushed to medical facilities, where 33 were declared dead at the Dhaka Medical College Hospital, while 10 others succumbed to their injuries at the Sheikh Hasina National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery.
Survivor’s Account
Mohammad Altaf, an eyewitness who works at the mall, recounted a harrowing escape, stating, “When the fire caught in the front and broke the glass, our cashier and servicemen made everyone out,” Altaf said. “But both of them died later. I went to the kitchen, broke a window and jumped to save myself.“
Response and Evacuation
Over a dozen firefighting units were deployed to combat the blaze at the Green Cozy Cottage Shopping Mall. Fire Service and Civil Defense Director General Brig. Gen. Md. Main Uddin reported that 75 individuals, including 42 found unconscious, were rescued from the burning structure.
