By: Hafizur Rahman, Camp Correspondent
December 24, 2024
COX’S BAZAR, BANGLADESH – A devastating fire engulfed the Rohingya refugee camp in Camp-1W, Cox’s Bazar, on December 24, 2024. The blaze, which began around 12:30 PM in Block-F, spread rapidly across multiple sub-blocks, destroying homes and displacing thousands of people.
Scale of Destruction
Preliminary reports indicate that 539 shelters were completely destroyed across sub-blocks C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5. In a desperate effort to contain the fire, an additional 263 shelters were partially demolished. Tragically, four homes in the nearby host community were also burned.
In total, the fire affected approximately 1,200 shelters, leaving thousands homeless and vulnerable. Essential community facilities were also lost, including:
- 3 partner offices
- 1 learning center
- 19 home-based schools
- 5 mosques
- Multiple water and sanitation facilities
A resident shared the harrowing experience: “The fire reached my shelter in just five minutes. I couldn’t save anything.”
Casualties and Injuries
The fire claimed the lives of two individuals—an 8-year-old child and a 66-year-old man, identified as the father of Dr. Boni Amin. Additionally, 19 people sustained injuries while trying to escape or extinguish the fire.
Families not only lost their homes but also vital documents and personal belongings. For many, it was a heartbreaking blow to the fragile stability they had managed to build in the camp.
Emergency Response
Volunteers from the Site Management Support (SMS) and Natural Resource Management (NRM) teams, 25 Community Forestry Workers (CFWs), and the Bangladesh Fire Service worked together to bring the fire under control within an hour.
Damage to Infrastructure
The fire caused significant damage to critical infrastructure, including:
- 84 latrines
- 60 bathing cubicles
- 5 mosques
- 5 tap stands
- 3 water tanks (1,000 liters)
Several organizational offices, including those of SMS, CFRM, IRC, and HI, also sustained damage.
A Community in Mourning
The fire has left the Rohingya community grieving. Families, especially women and children, were seen crying as they watched their homes and belongings turn to ashes. The loss is immeasurable, yet the community has shown resilience and unity during this crisis.
Volunteers, neighbors, and local authorities worked tirelessly to provide immediate support. “We have lost so much, but we are thankful for everyone who tried to help us during this time,” said a camp resident.
The Road Ahead
While damage assessments are ongoing, the urgent needs for shelter, food, and medical assistance are clear. This tragedy underscores the precarious conditions in which refugees live and highlights the need for stronger safety measures in the camps.
Despite the destruction, the Rohingya community remains hopeful and determined to rebuild their lives. Together, they stand resilient in the face of adversity, striving for a better future.
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