Fire at Dhaka Airport Contained, Flights Resume Operations
A fire at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, which erupted on Friday afternoon, has been successfully contained, allowing flight operations to resume. The incident prompted the formation of a seven-member committee by the interim government to investigate the cause and implications of the fire.
Incident Overview
The fire broke out around 2:15 p.m. local time in the airport’s cargo village, specifically near Gate 8. Thanks to the prompt response from the Fire Service and airport authorities, the blaze was brought under control. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, and ongoing monitoring efforts are in place to ensure that the fire is completely extinguished.
The Advisor to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism visited the airport to oversee the situation, emphasizing the collaboration among various agencies to restore safety and normal operations. By 9:06 p.m. local time, flight operations had resumed, marking a return to normalcy at one of the busiest airports in the country.
Impact on Flights
The fire caused significant disruptions, particularly affecting flights between the UAE and Dhaka. Emirates canceled flight EK586 from Dubai to Dhaka, while Air Arabia adjusted its schedule. Other airlines, including Flydubai and Biman Bangladesh Airlines, experienced delays due to the operational challenges stemming from the incident.
Passengers were advised by Dubai Airports to check for updated flight schedules as services gradually returned to normal.
Firefighting Efforts
A total of 36 firefighting units, comprising teams from the Bangladesh Fire Service, Navy, Air Force, Civil Aviation, and Border Guard Bangladesh, were deployed to manage the situation. Authorities confirmed that all aircraft at the airport remained safe, although at least five inbound flights were diverted to Shah Amanat International Airport in Chattogram and Osmani International Airport in Sylhet.
The cargo area sustained considerable damage, impacting warehouses used for international courier services and chemicals. This incident raised concerns regarding safety standards and emergency preparedness, especially in light of recent deadly fires in Dhaka and Chattogram.
Government Response and Investigation
In response to the incident, the interim government has committed to a thorough investigation to determine the fire’s cause. Officials stated that identifying the source of the fire is crucial, and measures will be implemented to prevent future occurrences.
The government expressed appreciation for the public’s patience during this disruption and reassured citizens that security services are diligently investigating all recent fire incidents across the country. They emphasized that any credible evidence of sabotage or arson would lead to a swift and decisive response.
In a statement, the government underscored the importance of unity and calm in the face of challenges, asserting that Bangladesh will confront any threats to its democracy with determination.
FAQs
What caused the fire at Dhaka Airport?
The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation by a committee formed by the interim government.
Were there any injuries reported due to the fire?
No casualties or injuries were reported as a result of the fire at the airport.
How are flight operations affected following the fire?
Flight operations resumed at 9:06 p.m. local time, but several flights faced cancellations and delays, particularly those between the UAE and Dhaka.
Conclusion
The fire at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport has been contained, and flight operations are gradually returning to normal. The interim government is conducting a thorough investigation to ascertain the cause of the fire and improve safety measures. Authorities remain vigilant in addressing public concerns about fire safety in the region.
The incident at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport highlights the ongoing challenges faced by infrastructure in Bangladesh, particularly in urban areas where rapid development often outpaces safety regulations. The airport, which serves as a critical hub for international travel and trade, has previously experienced operational disruptions due to various incidents, underscoring the need for robust emergency response protocols and infrastructure improvements.
As the investigation unfolds, it will be essential for the government to engage with stakeholders, including airport management and international aviation authorities, to enhance safety standards. This incident may also prompt a broader review of fire safety measures across other key facilities in the country, ensuring that lessons learned are applied to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The government’s commitment to transparency and accountability will be crucial in restoring public confidence in the safety of air travel in Bangladesh.
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Flight Disruptions at Dhaka Airport Due to Fire Incident
