Though the Fire Service resumed its rescue and recovery efforts for a second day at a blast-affected seven-storey building in Dhaka's Gulistan on Wednesday morning, the work is moving slowly because of the risky condition of the building.
According to the Dhaka Metropolitan Police, the building is in a dangerous condition. A National Committee comprising the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk), the army and specialized agencies has been formed.
The rescue operations will be started at full scale as per the advice of the experts of the committee.
Zafar Hossain, deputy commissioner of the Lalbagh zone of DMP, said that the rescue operation of the Fire Service was suspended as the beams of the building were dangerous. The beams and pillars in the basement of the building are damaged, and operating heavy machinery in the area, such as excavators, could create vibrations that might cause the building to collapse.
A team of experts has been formed in this regard. Based on their feedback and recommendations, rescue operations will continue and further steps will be taken, he added.
“The experts are already holding a meeting. They will come here and will give further instructions. The rescue work is still incomplete.”
He said: “The Fire Service is still working continuously in the adjoining areas of the site. We have also strengthened our security. We are providing the necessary support.”
The DMP official said that there is a financial institution here. The fire service and rescue teams have coordinated their work to save money and valuables of Brac Bank, if any, from the second floor to the fourth floor.
He said that they could not know the number and names of members of the national committee. There has already been a discussion about what equipment is required for monitoring activities.
The expert committee will start working with the Fire Service on the ground in that regard.
Some have reported their missing relatives, said the police official.
If the Fire Service can fully resume its operation and remove the debris, then it will be possible to confirm if anyone is trapped there, he added.
The explosion has so far claimed the lives of 17 people.
Officials fear the death toll will likely increase as many of those rescued are critically injured.