Flames at DEPZ

Let's not forget, the 80 odd firemen engaged in taming the raging flames were from various fire brigade units of Dhaka and its surrounding areas. And that's where we have a concern to voice. What if these units were engaged in duties away from their stations, what if there was another accident demanding their attention? One of the reports suggested that not only does the DEPZ lack fire fighters, some of them were even on duty near other factories at the time.

The concept of Export Processing Zones is gaining in popularity. A good number of countries have already invested in these exclusive economic zones, many more are showing a keen interest to put in money there. It has been a huge boost to our economy in terms of foreign investment and creation of employment opportunities. And that's all the more reason why a properly equipped and self-contained fire fighting system must be available inside the EPZ. Our hope is, BEPZA would look into the matter and take appropriate measures to revamp the fire fighting arrangements in the special industrial zones.

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