Tragic Fire Erupts in Rohingya Refugee Camp 05, Cox’s Bazar

A devastating fire broke out in Camp 05 of the Rohingya refugee settlement in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, in the early hours of January 7, causing significant damage to shelters, educational facilities, and religious structures. The incident unfolded at 12:40 am and was successfully brought under control around 3 am.

Extent of the Damage:

The fire wreaked havoc across multiple blocks within Camp 05, resulting in substantial losses. While the specific damages per block are not disclosed, the impact on shelters, learning institutions, and religious buildings is profound.

Emergency Response and Coordination Meeting:

In response to the crisis, a coordination meeting was convened at the Office of the Camp-in-Charge (CIC) of Camp 05, presided over by Md. Shamsud Douza, Additional Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner (A RRRC). Key stakeholders, including representatives from APBn, ISCG, UNHCR, IOM, WFP, BDRCS, BRAC, CODEC, and other humanitarian partners, gathered to assess the situation and coordinate a comprehensive response.

Damage Assessment:

After successfully containing the fire at 4:00 am, the extent of the damage was evaluated. A total of 774 shelters were reported as damaged, with 711 being fully damaged and 63 partially damaged. Additionally, 12 learning facilities suffered complete destruction.

Refugee Perspectives:

It is noteworthy that some refugees within the camp suspect that the fire may have been intentionally set. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the circumstances leading to the tragic incident.

Immediate Response Measures:

Several immediate response measures were outlined during the meeting:

1. Food Distribution: The World Food Programme (WFP) committed to distributing high-energy biscuits immediately. Cooked meals will be provided to affected families for the next seven days through the implementing partner, CODEC.
2. Non-Food Items (NFI): The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) will oversee the distribution of NFI materials. Coordination with the Camp-in-Charge (CIC) will precede the distribution.
3. Health Services: A Mobile Medical Team (MMT) is on standby, coordinated with the Health Sector and UNHCR. Mental health and psychosocial support services are in place for the affected population.
4. WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene): NGOs DSK and JSK have initiated WASH efforts in collaboration with relevant sectors and NGOs. They are committed to providing essential assistance.
5. Coordination Team: A coordination team, comprising UNHCR, BDRCS, ISCG SCI, and BRAC, has been formed. The CIC of Camp 05 will lead the team, ensuring all response activities are implemented in coordination and consultation.

As the affected community grapples with the aftermath of this devastating fire, the international humanitarian community stands united in providing urgent relief and support to help rebuild lives in the Rohingya refugee camps. The investigation into the cause of the fire will continue, addressing concerns raised by some refugees regarding its origin.