Toxic gas from chemical fire mixes with air in Mirpur

The fire at a chemical warehouse in Mirpur’s Shialbari, Dhaka, remains uncontained, with smoke still emanating from the site. Toxic gases, including chlorine, have mixed with the air, posing risks to respiratory health, lungs, heart, and skin.

Assistant Director of Fire Service’s Dhaka Division, Kazi Nazmuzzaman, shared these concerns during a briefing at the site on Wednesday afternoon.

He said, “Smoke from various chemicals in the warehouse has produced toxic gases, including chlorine, which have mixed with the air. This can cause respiratory, lung, heart, and skin issues, posing risks in this densely populated area.”

Noting ongoing firefighting efforts, he added, “Due to the nature of the chemicals, operations may take longer. A BUET expert team will arrive this afternoon to assess and advise. Decisions will follow. The garment fire is fully under control, but the chemical warehouse fire will take time. Thick white smoke persists inside.”

Highlighting the dangers of chemical fires, Kazi Nazmuzzaman said, “If chemicals aren’t stored per regulations, they could trigger a major explosion or reaction. This is why it’s taking time.”

When asked about casualties, he said, “We’ll confirm if there are any bodies after fully extinguishing the fire.”

On contacting the warehouse owner, he added, “We haven’t located the owner yet, and they haven’t reached out to us.”