Chemical Explosion in Dhaka’s Rupnagar: 16 Dead in Garment Factory Blaze

At least 16 charred bodies have been recovered from a garment factory in Dhaka’s Rupnagar area following a massive fire triggered by a suspected chemical explosion, confirmed the Fire Service and Civil Defence on Tuesday.

Speaking at a press briefing at the scene around 7:00pm, Fire Service Director (Operation and Maintenance), Lt Col Mohammad Tajul Islam Chowdhury, said the bodies were recovered from the second and third floors of the four-storey building.

"So far, we have recovered 16 bodies. Their faces are completely unrecognisable due to severe burns. Identification will only be possible through DNA testing," he said.

Timeline and Rescue Efforts

According to Talha Bin Zasim, a Fire Service media officer, the blaze reportedly began in the compound of a pharmaceutical company adjacent to the garment factory. The Fire Service received the call at 11:40am, and the first response team reached the site within 16 minutes, at 11:56am.

Twelve firefighting units were deployed, with teams focusing on containing the fire in both the garment section and the nearby chemical warehouse.

Victims Trapped, Escape Blocked

Lt Col Tajul stated that the victims were likely trapped between the second and third floors as the building’s rooftop exit was locked with two padlocks.

“The roof was made of tin and thatched materials. Due to the toxic gas release and sudden flashover caused by the chemical explosion, the victims became unconscious and died on the spot,” he said.

He explained that the fire reached what is known as the "third stage" of development, involving rapid spread and emission of deadly gases.

Chemical Warehouse Still Burning

While the fire in the garment section has been brought under control, flames inside the chemical warehouse are still burning. Firefighters are using advanced technology such as loop monitors and drones to assess the situation remotely, as entering the area remains too dangerous.

“We haven’t begun rescue operations inside the chemical warehouse yet. It’s unsafe and unstable. We’re closely monitoring conditions,” Lt Col Tajul added.

No Fire Safety Licence

In a concerning revelation, authorities confirmed that neither the garment factory nor the chemical warehouse had any fire safety licences, approvals, or proper firefighting systems in place.

“There was no fire safety plan, no licence, and no protective measures inside either facility,” said Lt Col Tajul.

As rescue operations continue, he extended condolences to the families of the victims:

“We pray for the souls of those who perished. Our teams will remain on-site until the situation is fully under control.”