Airport fire damages exceed billion dollars: BGMEA leaders fear

Staff Correspondent

The leaders of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers Association (BGMEA), an association of garment industry owners, estimate that the fire at the Cargo Village Complex at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in the capital has caused losses of over 100 crore taka. According to them, the country’s export trade, especially the ready-made garment sector, has been severely affected by the accident.

A delegation of the organization, led by BGMEA acting president Enamul Haque Khan, visited the scene on Sunday afternoon. The delegation included BGMEA vice president Mizanur Rahman, director Faisal Samad, and BKMEA president Mohammad Hatem.

In a written statement after the inspection, Enamul Haque said, “Usually, high-value goods and urgent shipments are sent by air. These ready-made garments, valuable raw materials, and sample products required for new orders were completely destroyed in the fire.”

He added, “We are deeply concerned about this unfortunate incident. It will not only affect the current export but also future business relationships and orders.” BGMEA has already started work to assess the extent of the damage. A list of affected products has been sought from member factories in a prescribed form and an online portal has been launched to collect the information.

Enamul Haque said that about 200 to 250 factories send goods by air every day. As a result, the amount of damage could be “huge”. Based on the information collected, the BGMEA will soon hold a coordination meeting with the airport authority, the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Customs and other relevant departments.

“When we entered, we saw a horrific scene—the entire import section was burnt down. We estimate that the damage could be more than 1 billion (100 crore) taka,” said BGMEA Director Faisal Samad in response to questions from reporters.

He said that the trade advisor present at the spot assured to start the import of new goods quickly. For now, arrangements are being made to store imported goods in an alternative place at Terminal-3. In addition, instructions have been given to complete the unloading of goods within 36 hours instead of 72 hours.

Faisal Samad also said, “A working committee is being formed jointly with customs so that goods can be cleared quickly. If necessary, work will continue on Fridays and Saturdays. There will no longer be weekly holidays for the sake of business.”

BGMEA leaders have called for utmost caution in fire safety during the dry season in industrial areas, warehouses and factories.