At least nine people have been confirmed dead after a devastating fire swept through a garment factory and an adjacent chemical warehouse in the Shialbari area of Mirpur, Dhaka, on Tuesday.
Authorities fear the death toll could rise as firefighters continue search and rescue operations late into the evening.
The fire began around 11:30 a.m. at a three-storey building housing Anwar Fashion, a garment factory, and a nearby tin-shed structure used as a chemical storage facility.
Firefighters have been working for hours to bring the blaze under control, but officials said flames at the chemical warehouse are still burning.
“We have so far recovered nine bodies from the factory,” said Talha Bin Jashim, a media officer of the Fire Service and Civil Defence, confirming the casualties around 4:15 p.m.
Fire Service Director (Operation and Maintenance) Lt. Col. Mohammad Tajul Islam Chowdhury told reporters at the scene that the search operation is ongoing.
“The adjacent chemical godown is still burning and poses serious risks. We are using advanced equipment, including drones, to conduct the operation safely,” he said.
Fire officials suspect the warehouse, which contained bleaching powder, plastic, and hydrogen peroxide, was operating without proper authorization. “It appears the chemical storage was illegal. We will verify the matter through investigation,” Tajul Islam added.
Witnesses said the fire initially started on the ground floor of the garment factory’s washing unit before spreading to the nearby chemical storage, where explosions were heard. The flames quickly engulfed the upper floors of the factory, trapping several workers inside.
Many workers managed to escape, but others were unable to get out in time. Officials believe toxic fumes from the chemicals may have caused several deaths.
“The victims likely died from inhaling poisonous gases coming from the burning chemicals,” said Fire Service officer Talha Bin Jashim.
As of Tuesday evening, the fire had not been fully extinguished, and authorities were continuing to search the building for more victims. The identities and genders of those recovered have not yet been confirmed.
The owner and staff of the chemical warehouse remain missing, according to fire officials.
Chief Adviser’s Condolence
Meanwhile, Chief Adviser of the Interim Government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives in the Mirpur fire. In a condolence message issued Tuesday evening, he prayed for the salvation of the departed souls and extended heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved families.
“The loss of innocent lives in this accident is deeply painful and heartbreaking,” said Abul Kalam Azad Majumder, the Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary. “We stand by the affected families in this time of grief.”
The Chief Adviser also wished a speedy recovery for the injured and directed the authorities concerned to investigate the cause of the fire and ensure all necessary assistance for the victims and their families.