Fatal Fire at Chattogram Market Complex

A tragic fire at a multi-storey shopping complex in Chattogram has left two people dead and another critically injured, highlighting ongoing concerns over fire safety in busy commercial areas.

The blaze broke out on Thursday morning at KB Orchid Plaza, located in the densely populated Terribazar area on Laldighi Road. According to fire service officials, the fire originated at approximately 10:00 a.m. on the fourth floor of the building, in a tailoring shop identified as Western Tailors.

Witnesses in the area reported seeing thick smoke rising from the store and quickly alerted emergency services. Firefighters from Chandanpura and Nandan Kanan stations responded promptly, deploying four fire engines to the scene. After nearly an hour of coordinated effort, the fire was brought under control at around 10:45 a.m.

Despite the swift response, the fire caused extensive damage, destroying at least three retail units within the complex. Three individuals sustained severe burn injuries during the incident and were rescued before being rushed to Chattogram Medical College Hospital for urgent treatment.

Hospital authorities later confirmed that two of the injured—Mohammad Yunus, aged 52, and Mohammad Solaiman, aged 28—died from their injuries at approximately 12:00 p.m. Both victims were residents of Patiya Upazila. The third victim remains in critical condition, with further details yet to be disclosed.

Nurul Alam Ashik, who oversees the police outpost at the hospital, confirmed the deaths, stating that the victims were declared dead shortly after arrival by emergency medical staff.

The incident has drawn particular attention due to its timing, as Terribazar is a major shopping destination that typically becomes crowded ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr. Although foot traffic was relatively low on Thursday morning due to the approaching holiday, large numbers of people gathered around the building after noticing the fire.

Authorities have not yet determined the exact cause of the blaze. An investigation is expected to examine whether electrical faults or safety lapses may have contributed to the incident.

Incident Summary

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining strict fire safety standards in commercial buildings, particularly in high-density urban shopping areas.