DHAKA, Apr 5, 2023 (BSS) - The Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) is deeply shocked by the fire incident which occurred in Bangabazar on Tuesday. 

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this tragedy and their families," said a MCCI press release.

On Tuesday, a fire broke out at the Bangabazar market in the early morning. It took six hours to bring the fire under control. As per the Bangladesh Shop Owners' Association President, the fire damaged over 5,000 shops, resulting in a loss of over Tk. 15 billion.

As a responsible business organization, MCCI understands the extensive damage that a disaster like this can do to the affected community. MCCI stands in solidarity with the affected businesses and "is ready to do whatever we can to assist their recovery."

"We understand the substantial part small businesses play in our community and recognize the need to help them get back on their feet. We will team up with local government officials and organizations to synchronize support initiatives and supply resources to those in a state of need," said the MCCI statement.

The Chamber is urging all its members to band together during this difficult period to back the fellow citizens and their businesses. 

MCCI strongly encourages those with the capacity to provide aid, whether it be through donations, volunteering, or other means, to do so, added the statement.