By: Hafizur Rahman, Camp Correspondent
Jamtoli, Cox’s Bazar | December 31, 2024
In the early hours of December 31, a fire broke out in Block C-4 of Jamtoli Refugee Camp (Camp 15), displacing several families and causing significant damage to shelters. The fire, which started around 2:45 AM, spread rapidly through the densely packed structures, creating panic among the residents.
Emergency response teams, alongside camp volunteers, acted promptly to control the blaze and provide immediate assistance to those affected. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported, but many families have lost their homes and belongings, leaving them in urgent need of support.
Cause and Initial Response
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. However, initial reports suggest that it may have been triggered by an electrical short circuit or mishandling of cooking stoves, both common risks in the overcrowded camp.
Relief efforts are already underway, with affected families receiving emergency supplies such as food, water, and temporary shelter. Aid organizations are coordinating with camp authorities to ensure the displaced residents receive the support they need.
Call for Improved Safety Measures
This incident underscores the critical need for improved fire safety measures in refugee camps, where overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure heighten the risk of such disasters. Community leaders and aid agencies have called for:
- Enhanced Fire Prevention Training: Educating residents on safe cooking practices and fire prevention techniques.
- Upgraded Infrastructure: Improving electrical systems and providing safer cooking facilities.
- Emergency Preparedness: Establishing better firefighting resources and evacuation plans within the camps.
One camp resident shared their experience:
“We woke up to screams and the sight of flames. It was terrifying, and we barely managed to escape with our lives. We need better safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.”
Community Support and Resilience
As relief efforts continue, the affected families are relying on the support of the broader community and aid organizations to rebuild their lives. The incident serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the Rohingya refugees and the pressing need for comprehensive safety and infrastructure improvements.
