Fire Breaks Out at Ukhia Camp, Rohingya Panic

A fire broke out late on Monday night in one of the Rohingya refugee camps in Ukhiya Upazila, Cox’s Bazar, engulfing multiple structures, including a learning centre. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported so far.

According to local sources and the Fire Service, the blaze started at around 3:00 am in Camp 16, located in the Shafiullah Kata area of Palongkhali Union. The fire quickly spread through the densely populated camp, prompting immediate intervention from both the local community and fire service teams.

Dolor Tripura, Officer-in-Charge at the Ukhiya Fire Service and Civil Defence Station, confirmed the incident. He said, “Two fire service units were dispatched as soon as the report was received, and efforts to control the fire began immediately. Our teams are working tirelessly to contain the blaze.” He also noted that law enforcement personnel are on site, assisting with crowd control and supporting fire containment operations.

The rapid spread of the fire posed significant challenges. Although local residents initially helped in extinguishing smaller flames, pockets of fire continued to flare up, requiring sustained efforts from professional teams.

This incident follows a series of fires that have recently struck Rohingya camps in Cox’s Bazar:

Rohingya camps in Cox’s Bazar have long faced safety hazards due to dense settlement, limited infrastructure, and the flammable nature of temporary shelters. Fire outbreaks not only threaten property but also disrupt essential services, including education and healthcare.

Authorities continue to urge residents to remain vigilant, maintain safe cooking practices, and report any signs of fire immediately. Fire safety campaigns, coupled with community awareness, are considered vital in preventing future incidents.

Residents and aid organisations are now assessing the extent of property damage in Camp 16. Relief agencies are expected to provide temporary shelters and essential supplies to affected families in the coming days.