BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Tuesday expressed deep shock and sorrow over the devastating fire at a garment factory and a chemical warehouse in the Shialbari area of Mirpur, urging a transparent investigation to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

In a post on his verified Facebook page, the BNP leader said, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic fire at the Mirpur RMG factory and chemical warehouse that claimed at least 16 lives. May Allah grant eternal peace to the departed souls, and may He bless the injured with a swift and full recovery.”

He said heartbreaking incidents like these keep repeating, leaving behind grief and many questions. The BNP leader said the nation must work to ensure workplace safety standards are implemented so that no more lives are lost due to negligence.

“I call upon the authorities to take immediate, decisive action to ensure transparency in the investigation, hold those responsible to account,” Tarique said.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost loved ones and with all those affected,” the BNP leader added.

Death toll rises to 16 in Mirpur factory and chemical warehouse fire

The death toll from the devastating fire at the four-storey ‘Anwar Fashion’ garment factory and an adjacent tin-shed chemical warehouse in the Shialbari area of Mirpur rose to 16 as of Tuesday evening, according to the Fire Service and police officials.

Firefighters said the fire, which began around 11:30 am, had not yet been fully brought under control till the evening.

Rescue officials fear the death toll may rise further as search and cooling operations continue.