Chattogram, Bangladesh – A devastating fire broke out last night at the BM Container Depot in Sonaichhari, Sitakunda, Chattogram, with the flames, smoke, fumes, and debris spreading across a 2.5km radius. According to data and satellite images from Zoom Earth, the indirect impact of the incident was felt as far as 10km away.
Satellite Analysis and Observations
Renowned academic Dr Nandan Mukherjee, analysing hourly satellite imagery from the US-based platform Zoom Earth, provided insights into the scale and atmospheric effects of the disaster.
️ Satellite Findings:
| Parameter | Observation |
| Area Affected (Direct) | 2.5 km radius around the depot |
| Indirect Impact Range | Up to 10 km from the explosion site |
| Atmospheric Effect | Creation of a microclimatic zone due to elevated temperature |
| Wind Speed (5:00 p.m., 3 June) | Approx. 22 km/h |
| Wind Direction | From the South and South-West |
| Risk Zone | Fire spreading towards a nearby endangered forest area, per satellite data |
“Due to rising temperatures from the chemically-induced fire, people even 10 kilometres away reported a pungent chemical odour and eye irritation,” said Dr Mukherjee via phone.
Explosion and Human Impact
Several explosions followed the initial fire, causing severe structural damage and panic in surrounding communities. Residents 4 to 5 km away reported tremors from the blast.
Casualties and Damage:
- Deaths Confirmed: 49
- Injured Individuals: Over 200
- Status of Fire: Still not fully controlled as of late evening yesterday
- Firefighting Difficulty: Exacerbated due to presence of hydrogen peroxide, a powerful oxidiser
Hazardous Chemicals and Fire Behaviour
The Chattogram Fire Service confirmed the presence of hydrogen peroxide in large quantities at the depot—an industrial chemical that significantly intensifies fires and is highly reactive.
“Hydrogen peroxide can turn even a small fire into an uncontrollable inferno,” explained a fire department official.
Firefighting Challenges:
| Factor | Effect |
| Chemical Nature of Fire | Makes extinguishing with water difficult |
| High Temperature from Chemical Reaction | Turns water into vapour quickly, reducing its effectiveness |
| Toxic Smoke Post-Explosion | Caused respiratory distress; several firefighters fell ill |
| Burning Sensation Reported by Locals | Especially around eyes; most affected were villagers near the station |
Dr Mukherjee’s Recommendations
Dr Mukherjee stressed the importance of adopting unconventional firefighting strategies due to the chemical nature of the blaze. He recommended the use of advanced satellite surveillance to monitor the fire’s progress in real time and determine appropriate intervention strategies.
“In chemically-induced fires, one must adapt methods. Water alone will not suffice. Authorities should rely on satellite imagery to track and suppress such incidents strategically,” he said.
️ Local Experiences and Reactions
According to our Chattogram office, local villagers reported intense discomfort:
- Burning of the eyes
- Heavy smoke inhalation
- Lingering chemical odour up to 10 km away
Several reported feeling seismic activity during the explosions. The community remains on high alert, particularly with the wind carrying toxic elements towards ecologically sensitive areas.
Ecological Concerns
The fire’s trajectory, as detected by satellite, suggests a dangerous proximity to a nearby protected forest zone. Experts are concerned that continued spread could cause irreversible environmental damage.
Summary Table: Key Information at a Glance
| Event | Details |
| Incident | Fire and explosion at BM Container Depot, Sitakunda, Chattogram |
| Fire Start Time | Evening of 3 June |
| Direct Impact Radius | 2.5 km |
| Indirect Impact Range | Up to 10 km |
| Confirmed Deaths | 49 |
| Injuries | 200+ |
| Chemical Involved | Hydrogen Peroxide |
| Wind Speed/Direction (5:00 PM) | 22 km/h from South and South-West |
| Fire Extinguished? | Not fully as of late evening 3 June |
| Risk to Environment | Fire progressing toward endangered forest zone |
Authorities continue to battle the blaze, while experts like Dr Mukherjee urge scientific intervention and strategic planning based on satellite data to prevent further devastation.