Dhaka , 26 November (H.S.): A devastating fire swept through the densely populated Korail slum in Dhaka on Tuesday evening, requiring a massive, five-hour effort from fire services to bring the blaze under control. The inferno, which started around 5:00 PM, rapidly spread through the sprawling settlement, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky and gutting hundreds of homes.

A Difficult Battle for Fire Crews

Fire Service and Civil Defence deployed 20 units to combat the blaze, but their efforts were severely hampered by the slum's narrow, congested alleyways, which made it difficult for fire engines to reach the heart of the fire.

According to officials, the first engine took over 30 minutes to access the site. Firefighters also faced water shortages and had to run long pipes to a nearby lake to maintain a steady supply.

Devastation and Displaced Residents

While no casualties have been reported, the fire has left thousands of the slum's estimated 80,000 residents homeless, many of whom have lived there for decades. Eyewitnesses described it as one of the largest fires in the area's recent memory, with families forced to flee with whatever few belongings they could salvage.

Displaced residents gathered in nearby open spaces, awaiting assistance as relief organizations like the Red Crescent provided first aid.

Cause Under Investigation

The fire was declared under control at approximately 10:35 PM on Tuesday night, though firefighting efforts continued to ensure it was fully extinguished. The cause of the fire and the full extent of the damage are still under investigation. The Korail slum has a history of devastating fires, highlighting the persistent vulnerability of its residents to such disasters.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar