Daijiworld Media Network – Dhaka

Dhaka, Nov 26: A devastating fire ripped through Korail, one of Dhaka’s largest and most densely populated slums, on Tuesday evening, leaving thousands homeless and reducing hundreds of tin-roofed shanties to ashes.

The blaze broke out shortly after sunset in the sprawling settlement that houses nearly 80,000 people, located between the upscale neighbourhoods of Gulshan and Banani. Giant flames lit up the night sky as thick black smoke engulfed the area, sending families running for safety with whatever little they could salvage.

At least 19 fire engines were rushed to the scene, but congested roads and the slum’s labyrinth of narrow lanes slowed the operation, said Fire Service official Talha Bin Zasim. “We had to leave the engines far from the site. Firefighters pulled long hoses through the alleys and struggled to secure enough water,” he said. The teams battled for over five hours before bringing the inferno under control.

Though no casualties were reported immediately, residents said the destruction was overwhelming. “Everything I had is gone. How will I survive now?” wept Amena Begum, standing beside the burnt debris of her home.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Bangladesh has witnessed several deadly blazes in recent years, with lax regulations and weak enforcement often blamed for such recurring tragedies.