The fire broke out in a four-storey building behind the Shahi Mosque at Churihatta around 10:30pm Wednesday and spread to four other buildings in a grim reminder of the deadly 2010 Nimtali fire, reported bdnews24 news portal.

After fighting for 15 hours, rescue workers ended the operation at around 1 pm.

37 fire-fighting units reached the spot and worked for hours to bring the flames under control.

The blaze was highly difficult to control because of flammable chemicals that were stored in several buildings, AKM Shakil Newaz, director of Fire Service and Civil Defence was quoted as saying by bdnews24.

Water was also sprayed from helicopters in the morning to douse the flames.

More than 40 people were hurt in the incident. They were shifted to  Dhaka Medical College Hospital for treatment.

As per bdnews24 news portal, the fire started at the four-storey building behind the Shahi Mosque, which is at the risk of collapsing due to damage. It is owned by one late Wahid Chairman, according to locals. From there, the fire spread to Rajmoni Restaurant and three other buildings in the narrow alley.

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina condoled the loss of lives in the tragedy.

The ruling Awami League tweeted: "HPM #SheikhHasina shocked at the loss of lives in Old Dhaka fire. She asked authorities for proper treatment of the injured and give necessary support to families of the deceased. She conveyed sympathy to the bereaved families and prayed for eternal peace of the departed souls."

Indian government condoles:

Indian government condoled the loss of lives in the incident.

"India is saddened by the loss of lives as a result of tragic fire in Dhaka on February 20. We offer our deepest condolences to relatives of those affected by the accident. As a close neighbour & partner, we stand by the people & the Government of Bangladesh in this hour of grief," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.
 

Image: Al Mamun Kabir Twitter page