A severe fire incident at the Singair branch of Islami Bank PLC in Manikganj has resulted in substantial financial losses and considerable damage to office infrastructure. The fire, which erupted in the early hours of Sunday, 16 November at approximately 2:30 am, is believed to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, according to initial assessments provided by bank officials.
Branch Manager Mohammad Ramjan Ali confirmed the incident and reported that flames spread rapidly through the premises before emergency services could bring the situation under control. The fire destroyed critical banking equipment and essential office materials, resulting in losses estimated at around Tk 30 lakh.
Extent of Damage
A preliminary evaluation of the burnt items shows the following losses:
| Item Damaged | Quantity | Estimated Loss (Tk) |
|---|---|---|
| Computers | 8 units | — |
| Printers | 2 units | — |
| Air Conditioners | 3 units | — |
| Office furniture (mixed) | Dozens | — |
| Other essential equipment | Various | — |
| Total Estimated Damage | — | Tk 30 lakh |
Bank officials noted that, while no cash loss occurred, the destruction of operational machinery temporarily disrupted essential banking functions.
Rapid Firefighting Response
Upon receiving reports of the blaze, two units of the Singair Fire Service, accompanied by local police and nearby residents, arrived swiftly at the scene. Their coordinated efforts brought the fire under control within roughly one hour.
Mohammad Mohibur Rahman, Officer-in-Charge of the Singair Fire Service Station, remarked:
“Prompt action by firefighting units prevented the fire from spreading to surrounding establishments. Our preliminary assessment suggests an electrical short circuit triggered the blaze.”
Senior Officials Visit and Assurance to Customers
On Monday morning, 17 November, A.K.M. Mahbub Morshed, Senior Executive Vice President and Head of Islami Bank’s Dhaka North Zone, visited the damaged branch to inspect the extent of destruction and review immediate restoration measures.
Despite the substantial impact on the branch’s infrastructure, Branch Manager Ramjan Ali urged customers to remain calm:
“We are taking urgent steps to restore regular banking operations at the earliest. Customers are requested not to panic as alternative arrangements will be provided to ensure uninterrupted service.”
Bank representatives confirmed that a full technical assessment is underway, and the branch will undergo necessary repair and system restoration as soon as possible.