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Khaled Saifulla 25 Nov 2025 , 5:19 PM Print Edition
DHAKA – A massive fire ravaged Dhaka’s Korail slum on Tuesday evening. The blaze destroyed hundreds of homes. It left thousands of low-income residents homeless and terrified.
The slum sits next to the affluent Mohakhali-Gulshan area. The Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD) received the alert at 5:22 PM. A total of 19 units fought the fierce fire for over five hours.
Battle Against Obstacles
Several issues severely challenged the firefighting teams.
Traffic delayed the arrival of many units. The slow response wasted crucial time.
Korail’s densely built structures and narrow lanes blocked fire trucks. Therefore, crews pulled long hoses through the tight alleys.
Firefighters faced a limited water supply. They successfully pumped water from a nearby canal to control the flames.
The fire spread very quickly. The tightly packed, tin-shed structures contributed to the rapid spread. Flammable items like wood and gas cylinders fueled the blaze.
Huge Loss and Panic
The incident caused panic and massive loss. The slum holds an estimated 80,000 residents.
Destruction: Residents estimate that the fire completely destroyed over 200 homes. The flames left nothing intact in the affected area.
Injuries and Missing: At least 30 people suffered injuries while saving their possessions. Authorities are checking reports of a missing woman and child.
Victim Accounts: Residents watched their homes burn helplessly. Garment worker Lovely Begum said, “The fire destroyed everything I owned. My TV, fridge, and furniture—all are gone.”
Cause and Relief Efforts
Late Tuesday night, firefighters finally controlled the fire. They battled the blaze for over five hours.
The cause of the fire remains unknown. Fire Service officials have launched an investigation. Some residents claim arson caused the fire.
Meanwhile, aid groups and government agencies started relief work. They provided food and shelter. Displaced residents are seeking safety at the Hussain Mohammad Ershad School playground.
