Huge Discrepancy in Fire Investigation by Two Agencies

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) investigation committee found no evidence of sabotage in the fire at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport’s Cargo Village. CAAB’s investigation revealed that the fire originated within the Cargo Village, which, along with ground handling, is the responsibility of Biman Bangladesh Airlines.

On the other hand, the investigation committee formed by Biman Bangladesh Airlines stated that the fire occurred due to CAAB’s mismanagement, unsafe storage of hazardous materials, and severe lapses in security. The report identified overheating of lithium-ion batteries or electrical short circuits as the cause of the destruction. The findings highlighted serious deficiencies in airport safety.

Biman’s investigation committee submitted its report to the ministry on 3 November. CAAB’s investigation is also complete, and the report will be submitted to the chairman’s office this week.

On 18 October, a major fire occurred at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport’s Cargo Village. Five investigation committees were formed, including the government’s Finance Division, Ministry of Home Affairs, Fire Service, CAAB, and Biman. Biman’s report has been published, but the submission dates of the other committees’ reports remain uncertain.

CAAB’s committee, formed on 21 October and reconstituted on 23 October with a customs representative, was instructed to submit a report within seven working days detailing the fire’s origin, damages, responsible parties, CAAB’s firefighting role, and preventive recommendations. However, 19 days later, the report had not been submitted; it is expected by the end of this week.

Air Commodore Asif Iqbal Khan, CAAB’s security member and committee chair, stated that no evidence of sabotage was found. The fire originated inside the Cargo Village at the courier section. Electrical connections, equipment, and other potential causes are being examined.

According to CAAB procedures, the FSR division is responsible for firefighting, dangerous goods management, and certification. The latest inspection in February found no faults. Although the number of inspectors is currently low, new personnel will be recruited.

Biman’s investigation revealed that the fire started inside the ‘Courier Building’, where imported electronic goods and lithium-ion batteries were stored without temperature-controlled conditions. The complex was only half the required size.

Smoke was first observed at 2:15 PM, and by 2:19 PM, the fire spread with an explosion. The Fire Service was not notified promptly, and the fire sprinkler system did not function.

Biman’s committee recommended using the unused 21,800 sq. ft. Ansar Barrack on the northern side as a new warehouse.

Khaborwala/TSN