Rohingya Human Rights Initiative, New Delhi

13th May 2020

Massive Fire Reduced Hundreds of Shelters to Ashes Injuring at least 2 refugees in the world’s largest refugee camp of Bangladesh.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency, UNHCR communication officer in Bangladesh Louise Donovan said that a total of 312 shelters were destroyed, with 362 more partially damaged, as well as small shops and businesses.

"The UNHCR mobilized emergency response teams and coordinated with our partners," she said, adding that Rohingya refugees themselves had been the first responders. "Thankfully, no loss of life has been reported."

"The UNHCR [UN refugee agency] will repair the damaged tents soon." Said, refugee commissioner in Bangladesh.

Afrat Hussain, a Rohingya living in the camp, told the Rohingya Human Rights Initiative that the fire started by around 8:40 in the morning on Thursday (12th of May). “When I reached the place where the incident took place, people were already running desperately for their lives” added Arafat. Within 3 hours, 4 blocks were grounded to Ashes re-displacing hundreds of refugees.

The fire was very quick to spread as the shelters are made of bamboos and tarpaulin and the camps are very congested.

“Such an unfortunate event for the refugees came in a time when the entire world is fighting against the corona virus. But luckily there has not been any positive case reported yet” Said a community leader from the refugee camp, speaking to the Rohingya Human Rights Initiative.

Four firefighting units from Ukhia, Rampu, Teknaf and Cox's Bazar rushed to the scene and were able to bring the blaze under control after two hours, the Daily Star newspaper reported, citing local fire department officials.

The fire might have originated from a gas cylinder or electricity, said, a victim from the camp.

Although "The UNHCR [UN refugee agency] has said no casualties were reported so far, Hasson Ali a 33 year old victim said, at least two refugees were injured while they were trying to stop the fire.

“We are again reduced to the same situation like when we first reached to Bangladesh escaping from the genocide in Myanmar”, Dilara, another victim from the camp stated “we have lost every little belongings we had”.