by Hafizur Rahman
A fire broke out at a Rohingya shelter in Hakim Para, Camp 14, Block B 2, on February 3, 2026, causing serious damage to the shelter but leaving all family members unharmed, residents said. The incident occurred at around 3:00 pm.
The fire affected the shelter of Anuwar Begum, wife of Abdu Salam, who lives in the area with her seven family members. According to local residents, the fire started suddenly and spread quickly inside the shelter, prompting family members and nearby neighbors to rush outside after noticing the flames.
People from surrounding shelters immediately came forward to help control the fire using water and other available materials.
Anuwar Begum said the family was not at home at the time of the incident, as they had gone to collect food rations. Only her daughter was inside the shelter.
“We were not at the shelter. We went to receive food rations. Only my daughter was inside, and she did not know how the fire started so suddenly,” she said. “I suspect that an unknown person may have set the fire. Our neighbors helped us immediately, and we were able to come out safely.”
Volunteers were alerted shortly after the fire started and reached the location quickly. Working together with community members, they managed to bring the fire under control before it could spread to nearby shelters, which are closely built inside the camp.
One volunteer said the rapid response helped prevent further damage.
“When we received the information, we came as fast as possible. With the help of community members, we controlled the fire and prevented a bigger disaster,” the volunteer said.
Local community leaders praised the quick action of residents and volunteers, saying it helped protect lives and reduce further losses. After the fire was extinguished, the area was checked to ensure there was no risk of reignition.
The affected family is now safe, but their shelter has been badly damaged and they are in urgent need of assistance. Camp authorities and volunteers are assessing the damage and monitoring the situation.
Residents said the incident highlights ongoing fire risks inside the refugee camps, where shelters are built with temporary materials and placed very close to one another. Community awareness and rapid response remain critical to preventing similar incidents in the future.
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