Tragic Fire Claims Teen Worker’s Life, Devastates Chandpur Market
A devastating fire ripped through Saha Market in the Faridganj upazila of Chandpur on Saturday morning, resulting in the tragic death of a 15-year-old shop worker and the complete destruction of at least five businesses. The incident, which began around 10:00 am in the bustling Subidpur West Union, has sent shockwaves through the local community.
The victim, identified as Sabbir Hossain, a resident of the Salda area within Subidpur West Union and the son of Arif Hossain, was working at the time of the inferno. Preliminary assessments by affected shop owners place the financial damages in the range of 40 to 50 lakh taka, a significant blow to the local economy.
The Blaze’s Origin and Spread
Eyewitness accounts and initial investigations suggest the fire originated from an electrical short circuit at ‘Jihad Fatema Store,’ a popular grocery establishment. The flames quickly engulfed the store and spread with alarming speed to adjacent shops. While the owner of Jihad Fatema Store, Zainal Ahmed, managed to escape the rapidly intensifying blaze, young Sabbir Hossain was tragically trapped inside. Reports indicate that the rear exit of the store was locked, preventing his escape. The situation was further exacerbated by an explosion from a refrigerator within the grocery store, which intensified the fire and led to Sabbir suffering severe burns, succumbing to his injuries at the scene.
Community Response and Firefighting Efforts
Upon the outbreak of the fire, local residents immediately alerted the Faridganj Fire Service. However, by the time a fire unit arrived, the inferno had already claimed five shops. The affected businesses included:
- Jihad Fatema Store: The grocery store where the fire is believed to have originated.
- Iman Pharmacy: A local pharmacy.
- Telu Gazi Furniture: A furniture shop.
- Nazrul Islam’s Fish Feed Shop: A business supplying fish feed.
- Zahid’s Workshop: A local workshop.
Firefighters, working in conjunction with the local community, battled the fierce flames for nearly an hour before bringing the situation under control. Tragically, during the extensive search and rescue operations, the charred remains of Sabbir Hossain were recovered. The body was subsequently handed over to Sub-Inspector Rakibul Islam of the Faridganj police for further proceedings.
Sabbir Hossain had reportedly been employed at Zainal Ahmed’s grocery store for several years, a testament to his dedication and commitment.
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigation
Kamrul Hasan, the Commander of the Faridganj Fire Station, confirmed the complete destruction of all five affected shops. He reiterated that preliminary findings point towards an electrical short circuit as the most probable cause of the devastating fire.
Helal Uddin, the Officer-in-Charge of Faridganj police, stated that the incident is currently under thorough investigation. Authorities are committed to taking all necessary legal actions to address the aftermath of this tragic event. The loss of life and property has cast a somber mood over Saha Market and the surrounding areas, with the community mourning the loss of a young life and the destruction of livelihoods.
