A massive fire that broke out in the capital’s Karail slum on Tuesday afternoon was brought under control after nearly five hours of efforts. The fire service said the fire started at 5:22 pm and was brought under control by 10:35 pm with the efforts of 19 units.
Fire Service official Anwarul Islam Dolon said that firefighters faced difficult conditions due to dense settlements and severe water shortages. Initial reports indicate that more than a hundred houses were completely burned down.
The fire spread quickly as the houses in the slum were mainly made of tin, bamboo, wood and iron. Electricity was also immediately disconnected at the scene.
Affected residents said most people were not at home when the fire broke out. Lovely Begum, who lost her home, said, “Everything we built for seven years has burned down. Now we have to move on.”
It is not yet confirmed how the fire started. An investigation is underway.