On June 10, 2024, a daylong workshop on fire safety awareness and practical firefighting drills was held at the RAJUK Auditorium, organized by the Capital Development Authority. The event began at 9:00 AM, aiming to promote fire safety and preparedness.

The workshop was inaugurated by Major General Md Siddiqur Rahman Sarkar (Retd.), Chairman of RAJUK, and was presided over by Mohammad Nurul Islam, Member (Estate and Land) of RAJUK. In his welcome speech, Major Engineer Shamsuddin Ahmed Chowdhury (Retd.), Member (Development) of RAJUK, emphasized the importance of fire safety, noting the tragic incidents in Chawkbazar, Nimtoli, and Bailey Road that resulted in significant loss of life and property. He pointed out that many fatalities occur due to suffocation rather than burns. Given RAJUK’s role in development control, he stressed the need for incorporating fire safety measures in building regulations and ensuring timely action.

In his address, Chairman Siddiqur Rahman Sarkar welcomed all participants and highlighted the critical importance of fire safety amidst rapid industrialization and urbanization. He noted that Dhaka has a higher incidence of fire accidents than any other region in the country, causing extensive damage in a short time. He urged building owners to prioritize fire safety alongside the construction of expensive multi-story buildings and called for increased awareness and collaboration with various organizations to prevent fire accidents.

The workshop featured a technical session led by Mohammad Saleh Uddin, Deputy Director of the Dhaka Division Fire Service and Civil Defense, and included participation from senior RAJUK officials. Following the technical session, a practical firefighting drill was conducted in front of RAJUK’s main building, involving security personnel and Ansar members. The drill aimed to enhance fire safety awareness among participants.

The workshop was coordinated by Mohammad Momin Uddin, Director (Administration) of RAJUK.