At least 16 people were killed and several others injured after a fire swept through a chemical warehouse and an adjacent garment factory unit in Dhaka’s Mirpur area on Tuesday, authorities said.
Officials said the victims likely died after inhaling toxic gas from a chemical explosion that caused the fire to spread rapidly. “Those trapped between the first and second floors became unconscious instantly,” said Lt. Col. Mohammad Tajul Islam Chowdhury of the Fire Service and Civil Defence.
The four-story garment washing unit and neighboring tin-roofed warehouse, known as Alam Chemical Factory, had no fire safety licenses or emergency exits, he said.
Twelve fire engines battled the blaze for hours as smoke and toxic fumes hindered rescue efforts. Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus ordered an investigation and assistance for victims’ families.
The Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments formed a five-member probe team. Fire officials said unauthorized chemical storage and poor safety compliance continue to threaten lives in Dhaka’s industrial zones.