A fire that broke out at a garment factory and a chemical warehouse in Shialbari, Mirpur, Dhaka, on Tuesday, claiming 16 lives, has not yet been fully extinguished. Smoke continues to rise from the site.
The Fire Service said the fire is under control but not completely put out. The chemical fire is particularly complex, requiring more time to handle safely.
Meanwhile, workers of the destroyed Rising Fashion factory have gathered at the site. Some came to see the factory, while others came to check whether it has reopened. This scene was observed on Wednesday (October 15) around 10:00 am.
Senior Station Officer of the Fire Service, Md Shahjahan Siraj, said at the scene that the fire is under control but not fully extinguished. He explained that chemical fires are more complicated than ordinary fires, and trying to control them too quickly could lead to accidents.
Workers expressed anger, stating that 16 bodies were recovered from the second and third floors of the factory. The doors to the rooftop were locked with two padlocks, preventing many from escaping. As a result, these 16 people lost their lives. Workers said the deaths could have been avoided if the doors had been open.
Factory worker Tariqul Islam told Jago News, “If I had been on the second floor, I would have been among the 16 who died. I was lucky, but those who worked with me perished in the fire. The factory owner is responsible for this.”
After inspecting the site late Tuesday night, Fire Service Director General Brigadier General Muhammad Zahed Kamal told reporters that when unauthorised warehouses are established, local authorities and residents must ensure social safeguards. He emphasised that everyone must follow proper regulations when setting up chemical warehouses.