Several families from the Harijan community in Purba Bazar, Matlab Dakkhin upazila of Chandpur, are living under the open sky after a devastating fire destroyed their homes on 27 February.

The fire, which originated from a battery shop in the evening, quickly spread to nearby areas, engulfing 10 shops and five houses in Harijan Polli.

Many affected families have been left without shelter, struggling to survive with limited resources.

"We ran out of our homes to save our lives, but we couldn't take anything with us. Our house burned down, and we have lost everything," said Shankar, one of the fire victims.

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"We have been spending nights under the open sky for over a week, unable to sleep due to worries and mosquito bites."

The fire has left the victims in dire conditions, with many seeking refuge in temples and churches.

Although some managed to save a few belongings, most lost their possessions, including furniture, cash, and gold ornaments.

In response, the local business association, Matlab Bazar Bonik O Jonokalyan Samiti, has stepped in to provide food assistance to affected families. "Our association and local residents have immediately extended support to those affected," said Md Mujibur Rahman, senior vice-president of the association.

General Secretary Faisal Sarkar said these were all low-income families. Now, they have no place to stay and are forced to live on the streets.

Matlab Dakkhin Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Amjad Hossain said that financial aid and housing support would be provided to all affected families. "We will ensure assistance so that they can return to a normal life as soon as possible," he said.

Besides, efforts are underway to support shop owners who suffered losses in the fire, said the UNO.