Web Desk, October 18, 2025
Dhaka: A massive and alarming fire suddenly broke out in the cargo section of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Bangladesh’s capital, Dhaka, triggering an emergency situation at the facility.
According to Bangladeshi media reports, authorities immediately suspended all incoming and outgoing flights on a temporary basis to prevent a larger disaster. The blaze, which started around 2:30 p.m. local time near Gate 8, has led to diversions of several flights, including an IndiGo service from Delhi rerouted to Kolkata, an Air Arabia flight from Sharjah diverted to Chittagong, and a Cathay Pacific aircraft from Hong Kong circling unable to land.
A Fire Brigade spokesperson confirmed that at least 37 firefighting units, along with armed forces personnel and Border Guard Bangladesh platoons, have rushed to the scene to combat the flames. The fire, which has engulfed the cargo village storing imported goods like chemicals and fabrics, is nearly under control, but efforts continue to fully extinguish it.
Thick plumes of smoke rising from the cargo terminal are visible from several kilometers away, prompting rescue teams to evacuate surrounding areas. At least 25 Ansar members have been injured during the operation, but no fatalities have been reported so far.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, with officials launching an investigation to determine the factors involved. This marks the third major fire in Bangladesh within five days, following a deadly blaze earlier this week that claimed 16 lives.
Airport authorities have assured that flight operations will resume as soon as the situation is brought under control.
