In the early hours of Saturday, 27 December, a devastating fire swept through Sirajdikhan Market in the Munshiganj district, partially or completely destroying at least seven to eight shops. Preliminary estimates suggest the total financial loss could be approximately BDT 8 million.
The fire broke out around 12:30 am in the bustling Khatpotti area of the market. According to local sources, the blaze originated from Kamal’s grocery store and rapidly spread to neighbouring establishments, engulfing them in flames within moments.
Eyewitnesses reported that Shahabuddin’s hardware shop suffered the most significant loss, with goods worth around BDT 4 million destroyed. Other affected shops include Delower’s timber store (BDT 1.5 million), Kamal’s decorator shop (BDT 1.5 million), Abul Kalam’s tea stall (BDT 10,000), and Kamal’s grocery shop (BDT 20,000). Several additional shops were partially damaged in the inferno.
| Shop Owner | Type of Shop | Estimated Loss (BDT) |
|---|---|---|
| Shahabuddin | Hardware | 4,000,000 |
| Delower | Timber | 1,500,000 |
| Kamal | Decorator | 1,500,000 |
| Abul Kalam | Tea Stall | 10,000 |
| Kamal | Grocery | 20,000 |
| Others | Various | – |
| Total Estimated Loss | 8,000,000 |
Upon receiving the news, Sirajdikhan Police patrol teams, units from the Sirajdikhan and Tongibari Fire Services, and local residents rushed to the scene. Through a coordinated effort lasting nearly two hours, the fire was successfully brought under control, preventing further destruction.
Muhammad Safikul Islam, Deputy Director of Munshiganj Fire Service and Civil Defence, confirmed that the fire alert was received at 12:42 am. Four fire service units from Sirajdikhan and Tongibari stations worked tirelessly to extinguish the blaze. Fortunately, there were no casualties.
Authorities suspect the fire was triggered by an electrical short circuit, though the exact cause will be determined following a formal investigation. Swift intervention by the fire service reportedly saved several adjacent shops from severe damage, mitigating what could have been a far larger disaster.