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Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has expressed profound shock and sorrow over the deaths of four people, including three firefighters, in a fire at a chemical warehouse in Gazipur’s Tongi.
“While performing the noble duty of saving lives, three of our brave firefighters along with another individual have lost their lives. This is a heartbreaking incident,” he said in a condolence message, according to state news agency Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) on Saturday.
The chief adviser is currently in New York to attend the 80th United Nations General Assembly. He prayed for the eternal peace of the departed and expressed his deep sympathy with the bereaved.
Fire Service personnel risk their lives day and night to protect people and property, he said. They rush forward to save others while sacrificing concern for their own lives.
“The nation remains indebted forever to their selfless sacrifices. Today’s tragedy reminds us of how much risk they take while discharging their duties. Their great sacrifice will remain forever remembered in the history of our nation.”
“In this accident, we did not just lose a few lives, we witnessed a symbol of courage, humanity, and dedication”.
Describing the Fire Service one of Bangladesh’s bravest and most reliable forces, he said: “In times of crisis, they are the first to stand by the people. Today, while discharging that sacred duty, they had to give their lives. This is a moment of deep grief for the entire nation.”
To the bereaved families, Yunus said: “Your loved ones did not lose their lives in vain -- they dedicated their lives for the nation. Every citizen of the country will remember their sacrifice with the highest respect. I share your pain and pray that Allah grants you patience and strength in this difficult time.”
“This painful loss can never be replaced. Yet, their sacrifice will remain a source of inspiration for us—to build a safer Bangladesh.”
Firefighters Nurul Huda, Joy Hasan, Md Shamim and Officer Jannatul Nayeem were burnt while attempting to extinguish the chemical fire at a chemical warehouse in Tongi’s Sahara Market on Sept 22. Shamim and Nurul suffered burns all over their body. They were rushed to Dhaka’s National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery in critical condition.
Locals said the tin-roofed warehouse had been used as a garments factory. Late in the afternoon on Sept 22, a sudden explosion occurred in the area. Following the blast, people began rushing outside. As firefighters were attempting to tame the blaze, a drum of chemicals exploded, injuring four.