Preventing fire tragedies

Fire-related incidents have become increasingly common in Bangladesh. The year 2023 saw a series of fires and explosions that have afflicted us with extensive damage and fatalities. The frequency of fire incidents has also raised concerns about the adequacy of fire safety measures in the country. Many fire-related accidents have already occurred in factories, shops and households. Fires in Sitakunda, Gulistan's Siddikbazar, Bangabazar, New Super Market, Krishi Market and, most recently, in Mohakhali's Khawaja Tower -- to name just a few -- had all shaken the nation to its core. Over the past few years, we have not only seen a shocking rise in the number of fire accidents, but incidents of explosions and other such accidents are also increasing day by day.
One of the main reasons for these accidents is inadequate fire safety measures in our buildings and factories. Many structures have been constructed without fire exits, sprinkler systems and smoke detectors. Moreover, it is the lack of proper maintenance of our buildings that only causes catastrophes like the one we saw in Khawaja Tower. Despite having RAJUK (Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha) approval, many buildings do not have spaces that can allow fire service vehicles and extinguishing instruments to enter there easily. The authorities concerned hardly monitor the fire safety requirements that all buildings should follow. Along with carelessness, faulty electrical connections are also responsible for most fire accidents in Dhaka city.
The government must take immediate actions to ensure that all buildings comply with proper safety standards. Fire rules and regulations must be implemented to stop the repetition of such tragedies. There is no substitute for awareness in preventing fire accidents. If there is a fire somewhere, the fire service department should be informed very quickly by calling its hotline number, which is 16163.

Abu Elias Linkon,
Banasree, Dhaka,
[email protected]