Massive Fire Devastates Korail Slum in Dhaka, Bangladesh: Thousands Left Homeless
A devastating inferno tore through Korail, one of Dhaka, Bangladesh's largest and most densely populated slums, on Tuesday evening, leaving an estimated thousands of residents without homes. The massive blaze reduced rows of makeshift tin-roofed dwellings to smoldering ruins, painting a grim picture of destruction across the capital.
The Inferno's Grip on Korail
The conflagration ignited shortly after sunset in the bustling heart of Korail, a settlement home to approximately 80,000 people. This sprawling slum is uniquely situated between Dhaka's affluent Gulshan and Banani neighborhoods, juxtaposed against towering upscale apartment complexes. As orange flames climbed into the night sky, a thick pall of smoke enveloped the area, prompting frantic residents to flee, clutching whatever meager possessions they could salvage.
Challenges for Firefighters
Responding to the emergency, at least 19 fire engines were dispatched to the scene. However, firefighters faced formidable challenges. According to Fire Service official Talha Bin Zasim, severe traffic congestion hampered their initial arrival. Once inside the slum's perimeter, the labyrinthine network of narrow lanes rendered the large engines unusable, forcing crews to drag long hoses over considerable distances. Battling for over five grueling hours, struggling to secure adequate water pressure through the cramped alleys, they finally managed to bring the raging flames under control.
Profound Loss and Unanswered Questions
While no immediate casualties were reported, the sheer scale of the devastation was profound. Residents spoke of near-total loss. "Everything I had is gone. How will I survive now?" lamented Amena Begum, her face streaked with tears, as she gazed upon the charred remnants of her former home.
The cause of the fire remains unclear. This tragedy highlights a recurring issue in the South Asian nation. Critics frequently point to inadequate regulations and lax enforcement as contributing factors to the numerous large-scale fires that have claimed hundreds of lives in Bangladesh in recent years. The Korail slum fire serves as another stark reminder of the urgent need for improved safety standards and urban planning in vulnerable communities.