16 dead in fire at illegal chemical warehouse in Mirpur

At least 16 people died in a fire caused by an explosion at an illegal chemical warehouse in Rupnagar, Mirpur, on Tuesday. The fire spread to an adjacent garment factory, trapping workers inside. The explosion occurred at M/S Alam Trading, an unauthorized chemical godown, which stored hazardous chemicals like glutathione and potash.

Firefighters controlled parts of the blaze, but the chemical godown remained difficult to contain. The victims, who likely died from toxic gas inhalation, were trapped inside the building because the rooftop grill door was locked. The garments factory, identified as RN Garments, employed 250-300 workers, some of whom were under 18.

The fire’s cause has highlighted the negligence of both the warehouse owner and the authorities, as neither facility had official approval. Efforts to contact the owners have been unsuccessful. Families of the missing workers, including children, gathered outside hospitals, anxiously awaiting news. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus expressed deep sorrow and called for an investigation into the incident.