A massive fire swept through the Jamal Complex at Hnila Station in Teknaf Upazila of Cox’s Bazar, destroying Walton and Vision showrooms and at least 10 other shops.
At least 20 people were injured, with the condition of two described as critical, while attempting to extinguish the flames. The incident occurred on Tuesday at around 8pm at the complex, which is situated on the Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf Highway.
According to witnesses and local sources, panic quickly spread across the complex and surrounding business establishments as the intensity of the fire rapidly escalated. Business owners and local residents scrambled to salvage goods from the shops, while locals also rushed in to help control the fire.
It is initially suspected that the fire originated during electrical wiring work at Cheher Miah’s paint shop in the complex, subsequently spreading to adjacent establishments. However, the Fire Service stated that the exact cause of the fire will be confirmed only after a formal investigation.
Upon receiving the news, a unit of the Teknaf Fire Service rushed to the scene to battle the blaze. Given the severity of the fire, two additional units from Ukhiya and Ramu joined the operations.
Local residents and businessmen also assisted the fire service personnel in bringing the situation under control.
Nurul Azim Sohel, a local resident, said, “Abdul Malek owned the Walton and Vision showrooms on the second floor of the complex. The showrooms, along with various other business establishments, have been severely damaged.”
He added that the complex also houses a branch of Grameen Bank, paint and hardware stores, and other businesses. At least 10 shops on the ground floor were completely gutted by the fire.
Sajjad Hossain Chowdhury, station officer of Teknaf Fire Service and Civil Defence, confirmed that the fire is primarily believed to have originated from Cheher Miah’s paint shop. He stated that the Teknaf Fire Service unit was the first to respond, with the Ukhiya and Ramu units joining later to completely bring the fire under control.
The station officer added that the fire was fully extinguished by around 12:30 am. An investigation will be carried out to determine the exact cause of the fire and the actual extent of the damage.
Meanwhile, local businessmen claimed that the damages caused by the inferno could amount to at least Tk10 crore to Tk12 crore. However, an official assessment of the losses is yet to be finalised.
