Firefighters attempting to douse the blazing inferno that engulfed Old Dhaka's Chawkbazar area on February 20, 2018 Mahmud Hossain Opu/Dhaka TribuneWednesday's devastating inferno in Chawkbazar area of Old Dhaka has left 67 dead and scores with severe burn injuriesRussia, the US and the Pope have all extended their condolences at the deaths of Chawkbazar fire victims. The fire was only doused Thursday afternoon, with the help of 39 firefighting units from 13 stations and locals. Earl R Miller, the US ambassador to Dhaka, also extended his heartfelt condolences towards the victims and their families. Meanwhile, Cardinal Pietro Parolin sent a telegram on behalf of Pope Francis, conveying his sadness at the deaths and injuries caused by the fire. The Pope offered encouragement to the emergency personnel responsible for the rescue missions and the treatment of the injured.

Source: Dhaka Tribune February 22, 2019 05:43 UTC