Massive fire erupts at Dhaka airport's cargo terminal, all flights suspended

A massive fire erupted at the cargo terminal of Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Saturday afternoon, leading to the immediate suspension of all flight operations. The blaze sent thick plumes of smoke into the sky, visible from a considerable distance, prompting a large-scale emergency response from Bangladeshi authorities.

The fire reportedly started near Gate 8 of the Cargo Village section at approximately 2:30 pm. Fire Service and Civil Defence authorities confirmed that an initial response saw nine firefighting units immediately dispatched to the scene, with the number quickly escalating to 36 units working actively to control the destructive flames, and additional reinforcements on standby.

Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed that two platoons of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and the Navy have also joined the operation to ensure safety and security in and around the crucial airport premises.

An airport official, Masudul Hasan, confirmed that flight operations have been postponed as a precaution due to the incident, although all aircraft currently remain safe. Authorities have not reported any immediate casualties or significant damage to the main terminal infrastructure as a result of the cargo terminal blaze.