At least 16 people have been confirmed dead in a devastating fire that broke out at a garment factory and adjoining chemical warehouse in Mirpur’s Shialbari area of Dhaka. The fire started around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday (October 14), and authorities fear the number of casualties may rise further.
According to the Fire Service and Civil Defence, the blaze began at the Anowar Fashions garment factory and quickly spread to a nearby tin-shed chemical warehouse. Firefighters recovered nine bodies by the afternoon; later in the evening, the death toll climbed to 16.
Fire officials said that the chemical warehouse is still burning, posing a serious risk due to the presence of explosive materials. Rescue and firefighting efforts are ongoing with the help of drones and modern equipment to locate trapped victims and extinguish remaining flames.
Eyewitnesses reported that the fire first ignited in the garment factory’s washing unit, then spread to the warehouse, triggering several loud explosions. The flames rapidly engulfed the four-story factory, trapping many workers inside.
Fire officials confirmed that the warehouse contained bleaching powder, plastic, and hydrogen peroxide, which intensified the fire.
Following the incident, the warehouse owner and staff went missing, said Fire Service Director Lt. Col. Mohammad Tajul Islam Chowdhury, who added that the warehouse appeared to be operating without proper authorization. A detailed investigation will determine the exact cause of the fire and any negligence involved.
Three injured workers were admitted to the Sheikh Hasina National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, where doctors said they were out of danger.
Authorities continue search and rescue operations, and the full extent of the damage is yet to be determined.