Tragic Fire Kills Ten at Cox’s Bazar Resort, Investigation Underway
Ten people have died in a devastating fire at a wooden resort in Cox’s Bazar. The fire started on Saturday morning at the resort on Patuartek Sea Beach in Inani, Ukhiya. Rescue efforts are continuing as authorities search for more victims.
Syed Morshed Hossain, Assistant Deputy Director for Cox’s Bazar Fire Service, confirmed the recovery of ten bodies. He told reporters on Saturday afternoon that more bodies might be found.
Six of the ten victims have been identified. They include Israt Jahan Maliha, 30, and Milita Mehezabin Alvi, 23. Both were from Dhaka’s Banasree area. Laila Jahan Nabila, 27, and Nafista Mim, 27, were from Khilgaon. Fariha Kabir, 33, was from Chuadanga. Five-year-old Faizan Ahmed also died in the fire.
Subaktagin Mahmud Sohel, Resident Medical Officer at Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital, confirmed these identities. However, the identities of four other victims are still unknown. Ukhiya Upazila Nirbahi Officer Panna Akter said these bodies were badly burned. DNA tests will be needed to identify them.
Six people suffered burns in the fire. They are now receiving treatment at Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital. The injured include Dr. Shihab Uddin, 31, a physician from Mugda Medical College Hospital. His wife, Nafiza Newaz Khan, 29, was also hurt. Mannan, 34, Meherunnesa, 30, Masud, 30, and Samida, 32, are also being treated.
Local residents reported that the fire began around 7:30 AM. The resort is located near Marine Drive. Firefighters quickly arrived at the scene. Locals also helped with rescue operations, assisted by police.
The cause of the tragic fire is still under investigation. Cox’s Bazar Deputy Commissioner Md A Mannan suspects the fire started from a stove in the resort’s kitchen. A five-member committee has been formed to investigate. An Additional District Magistrate will lead this committee.
