Toxic gas from chemical explosion caused instant deaths: Fire service
The devastating blaze at a chemical warehouse and a garment factory in Dhaka's Rupnagar area is believed to have originated from a chemical explosion that released highly toxic gas, causing instant deaths and widespread destruction.
Fire Service and Civil Defence Director (Operation and Maintenance) Lt Col Mohammad Tajul Islam Chowdhury disclosed the updates while addressing the media at the spot.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. He said the search operation continued amid high risk due to ongoing flames inside the adjacent chemical warehouse.
"We suspect the fire began with a chemical explosion that produced poisonous gas. Many victims might have died instantly after inhaling the toxic fumes," Tajul told reporters.
He added that the exact cause of the explosion would be confirmed after investigation, but initial signs indicated a "rapid flashover" (sudden, simultaneous ignition of all combustible materials) that spread through the building.
"From the condition of the site and the burnt materials, it appears the initial blast came from a chemical source that released toxic gas, causing immediate fatalities," he said.
The official said that many people managed to escape, but those trapped inside likely succumbed after inhaling the gas.
"We believe they could not move because of the toxic fumes and died on the spot," he said.
Lt Col Tajul said, "I have just inspected the chemical warehouse next to the garment factory -- flames are still burning inside. It is extremely risky, so we are not allowing anyone, not even our firefighters, to enter."
He said the Fire Service was using advanced, unmanned technologies, including ground monitors and drones, to continue neutralising the chemicals.
"The process of neutralising the chemicals is not yet complete. We urge everyone to maintain a minimum distance of 300 yards from the site," he said.
He requested journalists, officials, and members of law enforcement agencies not to enter the restricted zone for their safety.
When asked about the factory's owner, Lt Col Tajul said, "We have learned the place is known as Alam Chemical Factory, but we have not been able to contact the owner, manager, or any employees. Police and army personnel are trying to locate them."
Regarding the legality of the factory, he said, "From what we have seen so far, it appears the factory had no approval. This will be confirmed after a detailed investigation."
"We are sure there are chemicals inside, but we don't know the full extent yet. We will neutralise the site completely using technology before entering the warehouse for further search and rescue," he added.
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