A massive fire swept through a densely populated slum in Bangladesh on Wednesday, destroying hundreds of makeshift homes and leaving thousands of residents homeless overnight.
According to Reuters, the blaze broke out in the heart of the settlement, rapidly spreading due to tightly packed structures and flammable building materials.
Thick smoke, chaotic evacuation scenes, and cries for help filled the air as families rushed to save whatever belongings they could.
Fire Spread Rapidly Through Densely Packed Huts
The slum, like many in Bangladesh’s urban areas, consists of:
Tin-roofed huts
Plastic-sheet partitions
Wood and bamboo frames
These materials fueled the fire, causing the flames to spread uncontrollably within minutes.
Eyewitnesses reported that strong winds carried sparks from one cluster of homes to another, worsening the situation.
Firefighters Battled Through Narrow Lanes
Emergency response teams faced multiple challenges:
Narrow, congested lanes blocked fire trucks
Residents tried to help with buckets of water
Firefighters had to lay long hose lines to reach the centre
Limited water availability delayed control efforts
Despite these hurdles, teams worked overnight to prevent the fire from spreading to adjoining settlements.
Thousands Displaced, Relief Camps Set Up
Officials estimate that thousands of people have been forced out of their homes.
Many families are now sheltering in:
Nearby school buildings
Temporary relief tents
Open grounds
Local authorities and NGOs have begun distributing:
Food
Clean water
Blankets
Emergency medical supplies
Several children and elderly residents are being treated for smoke inhalation and minor injuries.
Cause of Fire Under Investigation
While the exact cause is still unknown, preliminary assessments suggest:
An electrical short-circuit, or
A cooking-related fire that spread unchecked
Authorities have launched a probe and are interviewing residents to establish the source.
Recurring Fires in Urban Slums
Bangladesh frequently witnesses devastating slum fires due to:
Overcrowding
Faulty wiring
Limited enforcement of safety regulations
Lack of proper firefighting access
Experts say systematic urban reform is needed to prevent repeated tragedies.
FAQs
1. Where did the fire break out?
In a densely populated slum area in Bangladesh (specific location pending official confirmation).
2. How many people are affected?
Thousands have been left homeless.
3. What caused the fire?
Likely an electrical fault or cooking accident, though investigation is ongoing.
4. How are authorities helping residents?
Firefighters, relief camps, food distribution, and medical aid have been deployed.
5. Are there casualties?
Early reports focus on displacement; authorities are still assessing injuries.
Published on : 26th November
Published by : SMITA
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Source Credit: Content inspired by Reuters reporting