Massive Chawkbazar fire continues to rage despite deployment of emergency units

Emergency responders battled a major fire outbreak in the densely populated Chawkbazar area of Old Dhaka as flames continued to spread across multiple structures throughout the afternoon. The Dhaka Fire Service mobilized ten units to the scene in an intensive firefighting operation that extended beyond five hours from the initial alarm.

The scale of the deployment underscored the severity of the fire, which posed significant challenges to firefighters operating in the congested locality. Chawkbazar, known for its tightly packed commercial establishments and residential buildings, presented additional difficulties in containing the blaze and preventing it from jumping between structures.

Authorities did not immediately confirm the cause of the fire or provide details on casualties or the extent of property damage. The continued intensity of the flames despite the substantial emergency response indicated that the fire had gained considerable ground before being detected.

The incident renewed concerns about fire safety measures in Dhaka's older commercial districts, where narrow lanes and congested building layouts have historically complicated firefighting operations. Residents and businesses in adjacent areas faced potential evacuation as the emergency operation continued.