Cox's Bazar, Dec 24 (V7N) — A devastating fire broke out at the D-Block of Lambashia 1-West Rohingya Camp in Kutupalong, Ukhia, leaving a trail of destruction and reportedly claiming the life of a child. The fire erupted around 1 pm on Tuesday and engulfed over a thousand structures, including residential homes, before being brought under control.

According to local UP member Helal Uddin, a child died in the fire, but the victim’s identity remains unknown. The inferno, which spread rapidly, displaced hundreds of families in one of the world’s largest refugee camps.

Md. Arif Hossain, Officer-in-Charge of Ukhia Police Station, stated that the fire likely originated from either an electrical short circuit or a gas cylinder used for cooking. However, the exact cause remains under investigation.

Upon receiving reports of the blaze, three units from Ukhia Fire Service Station arrived at the scene, later reinforced by three more units from Cox's Bazar and Teknaf Fire Service Stations. Army personnel and local volunteers also joined the effort, and after an hour and a half of relentless work, the fire was brought under control by 2:30 pm.

“The fire spread quickly, consuming thousands of structures, including homes,” said OC Arif Hossain.

The tragedy has left the camp residents in despair as they cope with the loss of shelter and belongings. Relief efforts are expected to begin shortly, and authorities are working to determine the extent of the damage and the cause of the fire.

END/SI/AJ