Bangladesh: Death toll escalates sharply June 5 after fire, explosions in Sitakunda Upazila, Chattogram District, late June 4 /update 2

Event

Officials have confirmed June 5 that a fire and subsequent explosions at the BM Inland Container Depot in Sitakunda Upazila, Chattogram District, late June 4 have killed at least 49 people and injured over 300 more. Authorities have further stated the death toll will likely rise further. The cause of the fire has not been confirmed, but firefighters said they suspect it may have originated in containers of hydrogen peroxide and then spread to other containers, resulting in the subsequent explosions. As of the afternoon of June 5, firefighters were still working to put the blaze out.

Heightened security measures are likely in the area over the coming hours as rescue, recovery and firefighting efforts continue. Given the scale of the incident, considerable localized disruptions are likely, as are disruptions to services at the container depot, which is a key import and export hub, especially for the garment industry.

The depot is located approximately 40 km (25 miles) north of Chattogram.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent related disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.