No possibility, including sabotage, will be ruled out in airport fire probe: Adviser

The government will consider all possible causes, including sabotage, in the investigation into Saturday’s devastating fire incident at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Civil Aviation and Tourism Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin has said.

“We will not rule out anything, including the possibility of sabotage, while investigating the airport fire. Every aspect will be taken into account,” the adviser told reporters on Sunday afternoon during his visit to the fire-ravaged Cargo Village of the airport.

Responding to a question on whether the fire at the Cargo Village on Saturday was an accident or an act of sabotage, Sheikh Bashiruddin said, “The investigation will proceed considering all possibilities. Every allegation will be taken seriously.”

He further stated that a cataloguing committee has been formed to document the entire incident, including the condition before and after the fire.

“Later, we will discuss the findings with intelligence agencies and other stakeholders to uncover the mystery behind the incident,” he added.

The adviser confirmed that an inter-ministerial meeting is scheduled to be held this afternoon to assess the situation and determine the next steps, including damage evaluation, compensation mechanisms, and operational restoration.

Bashir said a total of 21 flights were either diverted or cancelled following the fire, and the government has announced a package of immediate measures, including a three-day waiver of all airport-related costs and fees for non-scheduled flights to help ease the backlog caused by the temporary suspension of operations.

"We have also taken responsibility for passengers' meals, accommodation, and services to reduce inconvenience," he added.