Fire in Bangladesh kills 46, injures many in restaurant building
A devastating fire in a six-story building containing restaurants in Bangladesh's capital killed at least 46 people and injured many, as reported by the Health Minister on Friday.
The fire, likely started by a gas leak or stove malfunction in a biryani restaurant, was contained after two hours by firefighters. Twenty-two individuals are critically injured with burns.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed deep sorrow and called for immediate care for the injured. Survivors and firefighters recounted efforts to rescue those trapped, with many relatives mourning at hospitals for their lost loved ones. Among the victims was a family celebrating their visa approval for Italy.
Officials cited the building's lack of safety measures as a significant factor in the tragedy. The government has initiated an investigation, while the opposition criticizes the lack of accountability and rule of law. The incident highlights ongoing safety challenges in Dhaka, notorious for its vulnerability to fires due to inadequate safety protocols in many of its rapidly constructed buildings.
