A devastating fire erupted late Thursday in a six-story building situated in Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, claiming the lives of at least 46 individuals, as reported by officials.
Moreover, a considerable number of people sustained injuries in the blaze, with many in critical condition due to severe burns and respiratory complications, according to statements made by Health Minister Dr. Samanta Lal Sen on Friday.
Officials expressed concerns that the death toll might escalate further in light of the gravity of the burn injuries and respiratory distress endured by the victims.
The fire originated approximately at 9:50 pm on Thursday at a restaurant located on the first floor of the building, rapidly engulfing the upper levels, which housed additional eateries and a garment shop.
Rescue operations led to the evacuation of 75 individuals, including 42 found in an unconscious state, from the seven-story structure. Thirteen units of the fire service were deployed to tackle the blaze, authorities confirmed.
Dr. Sen disclosed that 33 fatalities occurred at the Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), with an additional 10 casualties reported at the nearby Sheikh Hasina National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery.
Emphasizing the critical condition of 22 patients currently under treatment at the aforementioned medical facilities, Dr. Sen, a burn wound specialist, highlighted the severe respiratory impairments suffered by survivors.
Medical professionals expressed concerns over the extent of burns sustained by some victims, which resulted in their bodies being unrecognizable, raising fears of a potential rise in the death toll.
Eyewitnesses and officials recounted how individuals attempted to flee the inferno by seeking refuge on higher floors, with many ultimately rescued by firefighters utilizing ladders.
One survivor, Altaf, recounted his harrowing escape, narrating how he, along with others, was guided out of the building by the cashier and service staff, who tragically lost their lives in the aftermath. Altaf recounted resorting to breaking a window in the kitchen and jumping to safety.
Local sources highlighted the precarious nature of the building, noting the presence of gas cylinders on every floor, including staircases, underscoring the heightened risk posed by the inferno.
As investigations into the cause of the fire are underway, authorities have initiated a probe to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
