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What happened
On November 25, 2025, a devastating fire engulfed the Korail Slum in Dhaka, Bangladesh, damaging or destroying approximately 1,500 shanties. The fire left thousands of residents homeless, although no casualties were reported. Firefighters struggled to reach the area due to its narrow alleys, taking 16 hours to bring the blaze under control. The Korail Slum is densely populated, housing around 60,000 families, many of whom are climate refugees. This area is situated between upscale neighborhoods and is surrounded by high-rise buildings. Residents, now desperate, searched through the debris for their belongings. Dhaka, with a population of over 10 million, has numerous shantytowns where people migrate from rural areas seeking better opportunities, often facing poverty and exploitation.
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Key insights
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Narrow alleys hinder firefighting efforts
Firefighters faced significant challenges due to the narrow pathways in the slum.
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Climate refugees in urban areas
Many residents are climate refugees, forced to migrate to cities due to environmental factors.
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No casualties reported
Despite the extensive damage, authorities confirmed that no lives were lost in the fire.
Takeaways
The fire in Korail Slum highlights the vulnerabilities of urban poor communities, especially those affected by climate change. Immediate support is needed for the displaced residents.
Topics
Health Public Health Culture Society Environment Climate Change