Dhaka, Oct 18, 2025 —
A massive fire broke out on Saturday afternoon at the cargo village area of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) in Dhaka, forcing the suspension of all flight operations and prompting a large-scale emergency response involving the Fire Service, Air Force, Navy, and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).
According to airport officials, the blaze started around 2:30 pm local time near Gate No. 8, where imported goods are stored. Witnesses reported thick plumes of black smoke rising over the airport complex, visible from several kilometers away.
Fire Service and Civil Defence officials confirmed that at least 32 units were deployed to control the blaze, while specialized fire units from the Bangladesh Air Force and Navy joined the operation. Two platoons of the BGB were also mobilized to assist in crowd control and logistics.
“The fire is concentrated in the cargo village area. We are working to prevent it from spreading to nearby facilities,” said Brigadier General Main Uddin, Director General of the Fire Service and Civil Defence. He added that the cause of the fire has not yet been determined but initial reports suggest that chemical materials stored inside the cargo area may have intensified the flames.
Flights Suspended, Several Diverted
The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) temporarily suspended flight operations at HSIA shortly after the fire began. Several inbound flights — including those from Bangkok, Delhi, and Sharjah — were diverted to Shah Amanat International Airport in Chattogram and other regional airports.
A senior CAAB official said that flight operations will resume only after authorities declare the area safe. “Passenger safety and airport infrastructure integrity are our top priorities,” the official stated.
No Casualties Reported So Far
As of Saturday evening, no casualties or injuries had been reported. However, authorities warned that the full extent of the damage to the cargo facilities and stored goods will only be known after the fire is completely extinguished.
Massive Response and Ongoing Investigation
Hundreds of emergency personnel have been deployed at the site as part of a coordinated response effort. Firefighters are using foam and chemical suppressants to contain the blaze, amid fears that the stored cargo includes flammable or hazardous materials.
