The possibility of sabotage, as suspected by some quarters, cannot be ruled out entirely.

So this Eid, I pray for a fresh pair of eyes, and a reason to hope. Or at the very least (once the festivities are over and we return to life as it is) be able to hope for and demand better realities than the ones we’ve been dealt. 

When will the authorities enforce building codes and fire safety regulations?

The government must urgently assist them

Now, who’s to be held responsible for the oversight in not preventing the Bangabazar fire? The designated city corporation? Or the market authorities?

Just one bystander can cause enough distraction to move the focus from the real situation on hand—which is to stabilise the emergency situation and save lives. So, who is responsible?

Dr Syeda Sultana Razia speaks to The Daily Star Opinion regarding the causes behind frequent fires and some possible solutions. 

It is important to remember that as with most markets in Dhaka – and other major cities – the Bangabazar Shopping Complex barely had any proper fire safety measures in place.

The damage has been extensive, leaving only scraps to be salvaged. Having struck such a tragedy right before Eid-ul-Fitr, which has left wholesalers destitute, wondering what tomorrow will bring.

Four years ago the Department of Fire Service and Civil Defence declared the Bangabazar Shopping Complex a fire risk.