Photo : BSS

DHAKA, Oct 18, 2025 (BSS) - The massive fire that erupted this afternoon at the Cargo Village of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) has been brought under control after seven hours of intense joint efforts by fire services, armed forces, and civil aviation authorities, said Khairul Islam Rony, media officer of the Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD).

"We managed to bring the fire under control at around 9:18pm, after nearly seven hours of operations. The cause and full extent of the damage will only be known after a thorough investigation," Khairul Islam told BSS.

The fire broke out at 2:30pm at Gate No. 8 of the Cargo Village, an area used for storing imported goods.

Civil aviation authorities are now working urgently to resume airport operations as soon as possible.

In response to the fire, 37 fire engines, two air force units, and modern firefighting equipment -- including robotic airguns and escalators -- were deployed. The army, navy, BGB, RAB, police, and Ansar forces also joined the massive response effort.

At least 25 members of the Ansar force sustained injuries and were admitted to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) and Kurmitola General Hospital, according to Ansar North Zone Commander Md Golam Maulah Tuhin.

Civil Aviation, Tourism, and Commerce Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin visited the site and assured that authorities are working to restore normal airport operations swiftly.

Following the fire, security has been tightened across Dhaka's Uttara area, with 5,000 police officers deployed to maintain law and order.

Meanwhile, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus addressed public concerns, saying that all recent fire incidents across the country are being thoroughly investigated.

"If these fires were intended to sow panic and division, they will only succeed if we allow fear to overcome our reason and unity," he said, urging citizens to remain calm. 

He also warned that no act of criminality or provocation would be allowed to disrupt public life or the political process.