A tragic fire at a garment factory and an adjoining chemical warehouse in Dhaka’s Mirpur district has claimed the lives of at least 16 people, with officials warning that the death toll could rise further. Several others were injured as rescue teams rushed to the scene.

The blaze erupted around midday on the third floor of a four-story garment factory and quickly spread to the chemical warehouse storing bleaching powder, hydrogen peroxide, and plastic materials, according to fire department official Talha Bin Jashim. Witnesses reported thick black smoke and flames engulfing the building, with a subsequent chemical explosion releasing toxic gas that trapped many workers inside.

Fire service director Tajul Islam Chowdhury confirmed that the bodies of 16 victims had been recovered from the second and third floors. “Recovery operations are ongoing, and the number of casualties may increase,” he said.

Devastating Human Impact

Relatives of the missing workers gathered near the charred ruins, grief-stricken and desperate for news. Many held photographs of loved ones while searching for survivors. One father, speaking about his daughter Farzana Akhter, said, “My daughter worked there. When I heard about the fire, I came running. But I still haven’t found her. I just want my daughter back.”

Authorities noted that the factory and warehouse lacked official approval and did not have a proper fire safety plan. The garment factory reportedly had a tin roof and a grilled door that was locked during working hours, making escape difficult. The chemical explosion worsened the situation, leaving victims unconscious and trapped, with many so badly burned that DNA testing may be required for identification.

Historical Context of Industrial Disasters

Bangladesh’s garment sector, the second largest in the world after China, employs around 4 million people and contributes more than 10% of the country’s GDP. However, poor safety standards and lax enforcement have led to a history of catastrophic industrial incidents.

In 2012, a fire at Tazreen Fashions, which supplied major global brands, killed 112 workers. The following year, the Rana Plaza collapse killed 1,135 garment workers, sparking worldwide outrage over unsafe working conditions in Bangladesh’s garment industry. These disasters have underscored the urgent need for stricter regulations, better building codes, and robust fire safety measures.

Government Response and Investigation

Bangladesh’s interim government head, Muhammad Yunus, expressed deep sorrow over the fire and urged authorities to support the victims’ families and conduct a thorough investigation. Police and army units are attempting to identify the factory owners and hold responsible parties accountable.

Experts emphasize that without systematic reforms, Bangladesh will continue to face deadly industrial accidents. Improved safety measures, regular inspections, and compliance with international labor and fire safety standards are critical to protecting workers in the garment and chemical sectors.

Rescue and Relief Efforts

Firefighters managed to bring the factory blaze under control after nearly three hours, although the chemical warehouse fire continued to burn. Local authorities and NGOs are coordinating relief efforts, providing emergency aid to victims and their families, and ensuring that recovery operations proceed safely.

The Mirpur fire serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing dangers faced by workers in Bangladesh’s industrial sector. Advocates are calling for immediate reforms to prevent further tragedies, highlighting that economic growth should never come at the expense of human lives.