Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Mayor Sayeed Khokhon started a drive at the Wahed Mansion in Chawkbazar area to remove all illegal and risky chemical substances stored in buildings.
The chemicals are being moved to the Keraniganj Jhilmil project area under the supervision of the city corporation.
While visiting the spot, the mayor said video footage was found that shows the source of fire, referring to a CCTV footage of Hotel Raj Mahal at Nanda Kumar Lane.
“I have come to know from police that the fire was caused by a private car’s gas cylinder explosion,” Sayeed Khokon said.
He added: "A few days before the fire, I had taken the initiative to remove all chemical warehouses in Old Dhaka. But unfortunately, two days later, such a major fire broke out.”
The mayor also mentioned that residential buildings need to clear and relocate chemical storage.
“If any chemical storage is found in residential buildings, legal action will be taken against the owner of the building,” he said.
Until all the chemical warehouses of Old Dhaka are removed, he will continue the operation, Sayeed Khokon vowed.
At least 67 people were killed in a massive fire that ravaged several multi-storey buildings at Nanda Kumar Lane in the Churihatta area of Chawkbazar, Old Dhaka, on Wednesday night.
It took 37 firefighting units 15 hours to douse the flames.