An intense fire outbreak in Old Dhaka on Wednesday afternoon turned a routine day into a scene of fear and uncertainty, as flames tore through a plastic and polythene factory in Islambagh. The blaze, which began at around 1:38 pm, quickly drew attention across the city due to the scale of smoke and the location’s dense population.
The factory, situated near Chairman Bari Ghat under Lalbagh Police Station, reportedly caught fire suddenly, leaving workers scrambling to escape and nearby residents rushing into the streets. Within moments, thick black smoke filled the air, visible from far beyond the immediate neighbourhood.
Fire Service and Civil Defence authorities responded promptly, dispatching six units to the scene as soon as the alarm was raised. Recognising the potential severity of the situation, officials later announced that three more units were being prepared to assist if necessary. Despite the rapid response, reaching the heart of the fire proved extremely difficult.
Old Dhaka’s notorious traffic congestion became a major obstacle. Narrow lanes, illegal parking and heavy midday traffic significantly delayed fire engines from arriving at the factory. Inspector Md Anwarul Islam from the Fire Service media cell confirmed that although the units were mobilised quickly, severe traffic slowed their progress, increasing the risk of the fire spreading.
The materials stored inside the factory reportedly included large quantities of plastic and polythene, substances that burn rapidly and release toxic fumes. Firefighters on the scene were forced to adopt a cautious strategy, prioritising containment to protect surrounding buildings that stand dangerously close to one another.
Residents described moments of panic as sparks flew from the building and parts of the structure appeared to weaken. Shopkeepers shut their businesses, families evacuated nearby homes and onlookers gathered despite repeated warnings to keep a safe distance. Law enforcement officers worked to manage crowds and clear routes for emergency vehicles.
As of the latest reports, no official confirmation had been issued regarding injuries or fatalities. The extent of the damage also remained unknown while firefighting operations continued. Authorities stressed that a full investigation would be launched once the fire was brought under control, aiming to determine the cause and assess compliance with safety standards.
This incident once again exposes the fragile safety infrastructure of Old Dhaka’s industrial zones. With countless factories operating in residential buildings and limited access for emergency services, each fire carries the potential for devastating consequences. For many residents, Wednesday’s blaze served as a grim reminder of how quickly disaster can strike in the historic but overcrowded heart of the city.