Ahlul Bayt News Agency (ABNA.ir), On 3 June 2010 at about 9:00 pm, a devastating fire broke out in the town of Nimtali Nawab Katra in Old Dhaka, about half a kilometre from the Hossaini Dalan Imambargha. This is the first time where a fire of this magnitude has occurred in the town, claiming over 115 lives and injuring 151 residents.
The World Federation of Khoja Shia Muslim Communites' (KSIMC) partnering agency in Bangladesh reported: ‘Shia Muslims were attending a programme when a sudden blast from the electric transformer engulfed the four story building, a nearby plastic factory, a bakery and many tin shed houses in fire. These structures were burned to ashes within 3 to 4 minutes. Most of the Momineen were trapped inside the four story building which burned to the ground. We received 10 dead bodies and many are still missing and others were rushed to hospital. The bodies were buried today at the Hossaini Dalan Graveyard.’
Dhaka's district commissioner informed the press that most of the dead were women and children.
The World Federation of KSIMC is deeply saddened by this disaster and offers its heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in the fire. We pray for the full and quick recovery of all those who were injured.
PLEASE DONATE: BANGLADESH FIRE FUND
At this time, The World Federation has opened the BANGLADESH FIRE FUND and is urging community members from around the world to donate to this appeal. Contributions to this fund will be sent to Bangladesh to help the deserving victims of the fire – many of whom are living below the local poverty line.
Shan-E-Abbas Hassam, the Deputy Secretary General emphasised The World Federation’s commitment to the Shias in Bangaldesh: ‘The World Federation’s workings in Bangladesh began with the vision and drive of Marhum Mulla Saheb who set up agencies there with whom we are still working with today. They really need our help and this fire has only exacerbated local poverty. It is our duty to help them and The World Federation will be accepting Sadat and Non Sadat funds which are needed urgently to help the families of those who have passed away and to assist in medical and other humanitarian needs. A full report will be placed on the website which will detail the assistance given.’
source : abna.ir
