Dhaka, Oct 18 (V7N) — A major fire has broken out at the cargo village of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, prompting the temporary suspension of all flight operations.

According to authorities, 28 units of the Fire Service and Civil Defence are working to bring the blaze under control, while eight more units are on the way to assist in the operation.

The Assistant Director (Public Relations) of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), Muhammad Kausar Mahmud, confirmed the suspension of flight operations around 3:30 pm on Saturday (October 18).

Eyewitnesses said thick black smoke was seen billowing from the cargo area, while crowds of onlookers gathered outside the airport premises.

The fire reportedly broke out around noon on Saturday. The Air Force, Navy, and Civil Aviation units are also assisting firefighters in controlling the blaze, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The cargo village is known to store imported goods from various countries, officials said.

As of the latest update, the intensity of the fire continues to increase, and firefighting efforts are ongoing.

END/SMA/AJ