DHAKA, March 4, 2024 – The High Court today issued a directive, requiring relevant authorities to provide explanations on why orders should not be issued for compensation to the families affected by the recent severe fire in a building located in the Bailey Road area of the capital.

A bench comprising Justice Mustafa Zaman Islam and Justice Md Atabullah issued this directive in response to a writ petition brought by the Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST) and Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), two rights organizations.

Furthermore, the court questioned why measures should not be implemented to mandate the construction of anti-fire rooms and staircases in all buildings, including factories, and why operations of a commercial nature in residential zones should not be declared illegal.

Additionally, the High Court has requested that Rajuk and the Fire Service department provide detailed reports on the casualties and property damage caused by fires in high-rise structures during the years 2023-24, as reported by Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS).