Flights remain suspended at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport following a fire outbreak. Sheikh Basir Uddin, Adviser to the Ministry of Commerce, Civil Aviation, and Tourism, stated that efforts are being made to reopen the airport as soon as possible.
Speaking to reporters after inspecting the fire site at the cargo village on Saturday (October 18), he confirmed that the fire affected only the imported cargo section, while the export cargo remains completely safe.
He added that a high-level committee will be formed to assess the damage and investigate the cause of the fire. Arrangements are also underway to provide the best possible medical care for those injured.
Although the fire is largely under control, some parts are still burning. He requested prayers from the public for the situation.
When asked about reports that the fire service was denied access, he said no such complaints have reached him and considered such a scenario unlikely.
The fire service, along with the navy and air force, is actively working to control the blaze. As a result, flight operations at the airport have been temporarily suspended.
Airport spokesperson Md. Masudul Hasan confirmed that the fire started near the cargo section and efforts to bring it under control are ongoing.
Eyewitnesses reported that the fire originated in the customs courier unit. The presence of flammable materials in the cargo complex caused the fire to spread rapidly, and thick smoke quickly darkened the surrounding area.
