An avoidable fire-related death
Afire broke out in a 13-storey high, posh block of apartments in Dhanmondi residential area on October 26 where an elderly woman working as a household help perished after inhaling plumes of black smoke. We keep writing about these fires and the needless deaths of people, either by fire or smoke inhalation and nothing much happens afterwards. The circumstance of her death speaks volumes about how little fire safety measures are thought of by real estate companies when designing both commercial and residential buildings! While two others fell sick on different floors, they were, thankfully, rescued in time by fire fighters.
The incident occurred in an upscale part of town with wide roads that allowed for the fire service trucks to navigate freely. We are told by the authorities that they suspect an electric short circuit in the building but more will be known after the investigation. The frequent reports of fire in shopping centres and apartment blocks in the city highlights the age-old problem of how they get past the Rajuk authorities when building plans are passed. The fire service department gives a clearance certificate for occupancy of buildings after construction, which is supposed to be based upon an onsite inspection to see whether they have adhered to the set standard for fire safety—is this being done in reality? And are random checks carried out?
While enforcement of rules remains a far cry, we often overlook the need for fire safety which goes beyond simply having firefighting tools in the building; the residents must know how to use them in the event of a fire. Building authorities—both commercial and residential need to conduct regular drills so that occupants know what to do and what to avoid when a fire occurs. These issues are always highlighted by the media after a fire-related incident occurs. We are assured and then reassured by the authorities that things will change and the guilty parties shall be brought to justice. Unfortunately, the wheels of justice move slowly in a country where rules are openly flouted and ignored without repercussions. Until we get our house in order regarding enforcement of building codes and raising awareness, these tragedies will continue.
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