Devastating Fire Erupts in Dhaka’s Commercial Hub

In the early hours of Tuesday, a severe fire broke out in one of Dhaka’s busiest commercial districts, Babu Bazar, sending shockwaves through the local community. The blaze originated on the sixth floor of the 14-storey Haji Tower at approximately 6:40 a.m., quickly engulfing the floor and threatening surrounding shops. Panic spread among the building’s occupants and neighbouring shopkeepers, forcing many to evacuate immediately to safety. The streets around the tower were soon filled with onlookers, their faces reflecting fear and uncertainty.

Fire and Civil Defence services responded promptly to the emergency. Within just five minutes, nine fire units from Sadarghat, Siddiq Bazar, and Sutrapur stations arrived on the scene. The deployment included two units from Sadarghat, five from Siddiq Bazar, and two from Sutrapur, all working in close coordination to contain the blaze. After an intense 40-minute operation, the fire was fully brought under control by 7:20 a.m., preventing large-scale destruction and safeguarding nearby properties.

Preliminary reports indicate that no casualties have been reported, though residents and business owners remain visibly shaken. Several families and shopkeepers were temporarily relocated for safety. Eyewitnesses described watching the flames rise through the sixth floor with anxiety and dread, noting the tense atmosphere that gripped the area throughout the incident.

Fire service officials highlighted the complexities and risks associated with tackling fires in high-rise buildings. They emphasised that only through the coordinated efforts of multiple units could the fire be controlled rapidly, minimising damage to surrounding shops, vehicles, and other assets. Their swift action has been widely praised for preventing a potentially catastrophic outcome.

Local authorities have since strengthened security around the building and are conducting thorough inspections of neighbouring structures. Plans are underway to enhance fire safety protocols and emergency preparedness, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Officials confirmed that a comprehensive inquiry will determine both the origin of the blaze and the extent of property damage. Meanwhile, residents of Old Dhaka are becoming increasingly vigilant about fire safety, and the administration has urged the public to follow emergency guidelines strictly.

This incident underscores the critical importance of stringent fire safety regulations and preparedness in Dhaka’s crowded commercial zones. It also highlights how rapid, coordinated emergency response can protect both lives and property in densely populated urban areas.