In response to the tragic Bailey Road fire incident, State Minister for Disaster Management and Relief, Md Mohibbur Rahman, has announced a crucial government initiative. Each victim’s burial will be financially supported with an initial allocation of Tk25,000, as revealed during the state minister’s press interaction after visiting the injured at the Sheikh Hasina National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery on Friday.
Expressing deep concern over the unexpected and unfortunate incident, Mohibbur Rahman emphasized the nation’s collective shock, with the president and prime minister actively involved in the crisis response. The collaboration extends across the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, and Ministry of Home Affairs.
Affirming the government’s commitment to covering medical treatment costs for the injured, the state minister assured the public that severe punishment awaits those found guilty, emphasizing the formation of an investigation committee to probe the incident.
The Bailey Road fire, which claimed the lives of at least 46 individuals and left over 20 severely injured, unfolded on Thursday night. Firefighters heroically rescued 70 people, including 42 found unconscious, from the seven-storey Green Cozy Cottage. The fire, originating at approximately 9:45 pm, was brought under control by 12:30 am.
Initial reports suggest that the rapid spread of the blaze was exacerbated by the presence of gas cylinders in restaurant kitchens on multiple floors, hindering evacuation due to smoke-filled staircases. The government’s financial assistance aims to alleviate the burden on the affected families during this tragic period.
