FBCCI donates Tk 10m to fire-affected traders
FE REPORT | Sunday, 28 May 2023
The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) donated Tk 10 million for the rehabilitation of the traders affected by the recent fire incident at Bangabazar clothing market in the capital.
FBCCI President Md Jashim Uddin handed over a cheque for the amount to the Bangabazar Complex Dokan Malik Samity at the apex trade body's office in the capital on Saturday.
Mr Jashim Uddin said any kind of fire incident is unfortunate for any businessman.
"I was out of the country when the fire incident took place in Bangabazar. The fire was so fierce that everything was burnt to ashes, nothing was left there. I felt that we should contribute even a little in this crisis. That's why we decided to provide the affected traders with Tk 1 crore (10 million)," he said.
He urged all capable businessmen to stand by small traders in times of natural calamities and fire incidents.
The FBCCI chief also emphasised the need for businessmen to follow compliance rules.
He, however, said that only businessmen should not be blamed for any disasters, but all the persons concerned should be held accountable, including the companies that issue licences to commercial buildings and factories.
He urged the government to take steps to construct permanent buildings for the affected traders.
Mr Jashim also asked the business leaders and market committees to be aware of the risky markets and take necessary steps to make them safe.
"We have formed the Fire Safety Council to increase awareness about fire safety in the private sector. So far, the safety council teams have visited 5,000 companies. They will visit a total of 44,000 companies across the country. Apart from this, fire-fighting training is being imparted in every factory," he maintained.
He asked the Bangladesh Dokan Malik Samity and FBCCI Fire Safety Council to work together to ensure fire safety in shops and shopping malls.
FBCCI Senior Vice President Mostofa Azad Chowdhury Babu and Bangladesh Dokan Malik Samity President Helal Uddin also spoke.
talhabinhabib@yahoo.com