Fire at Ukhiya Bazar, one dead

A fire broke out at Ukhiya Bazar in Cox’s Bazar. Sixteen shops were burnt in the blaze, and at least one person was killed. At least ten others were injured in the incident.

Local traders said the fire started from an electronics shop on the southern side of Ukhiya Bazar at around 4:30 pm on Monday, November 10.

The deceased, Mohammad Ali, 57, son of Ali Mia of Mizakhil village in Satkania upazila of Chattogram, was an employee at a shop in Ukhiya Bazar.

Locals said traders first noticed smoke rising from one of the shops. Within moments, the fire spread to nearby stores. Due to the rapid spread, many could not remove their goods. Some broke through back doors to save their lives. Mohammad Ali could not get out of the shop and died after being burnt.

Locals initially tried to control the fire but failed. Later, the Fire Service was informed, and they brought the blaze under control.

Trader Jasim Uddin said, “I didn’t even realise a fire had broken out. When I came outside, I saw the shops burning. If the Fire Service hadn’t arrived, the entire market would have been destroyed.”

Ukhiya Police Station Officer-in-Charge Ziaul Haque said a general diary had been filed over the incident. “Necessary action will be taken after investigation,” he added.

Ukhiya Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mohammad Kamrul Islam Chowdhury said, “The incident is very tragic. A list of affected traders is being prepared, and initiatives will be taken to provide government and private assistance.”