Massive fire breaks out at Dhaka’s Karail slum

Fire Service units were working to control a massive fire that broke out in Dhaka’s Mohakhali Karail slum, with 19 units deployed so far.

Local residents have also joined the efforts. However, broken water pipes and a partial shortage of water are slowing down the firefighting operation.

On Tuesday night around 8:30 PM, the fire was seen raging in the Bou Bazar area of Karail slum, including Kumilla Potti, Barishal Potti, and ‘K’ Block.

Flames were visible, and Fire Service personnel were actively working to bring the fire under control. Residents whose homes were affected have taken shelter at Khambar Bari field in Bou Bazar.

Earlier, at around 5:30 PM, the Fire Service issued a press release reporting the fire. Initially, 11 units were dispatched to control it, and later 8 more units joined the operation.

Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Tajul Islam Chowdhury, Director of Operations and Maintenance at the Fire Service, told reporters: “We are working with 19 units to control the fire. Sometimes pipes break, which prevents us from operating at full capacity, but we are trying our best. At this moment, we are focusing on controlling the northeast side of the fire. Once this side is under control, we will be able to contain the fire quickly.”

Regarding the water shortage, Tajul Islam said: “There is a partial shortage of water in the northeast area, which is slowing down operations. However, because there is a lake on the opposite side, we are working at full capacity there. We are hopeful that we will be able to share positive news soon.”

No casualties have been reported so far, and the cause of the fire has not yet been determined.