13 fire-hit families at Thanchi get relief

BANDARBAN, Sept 21: Relief materials were distributed among 13 families affected by a devastating fire at Balipara Bazar in Balipara Union of Thanchi Upazila in Bandarban on Monday.

The relief was handed over to the affected families on behalf of Barrister Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin, MP, State Minister for the Ministry of Land and Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs and Joint Organising Secretary of the BNP's National Executive Committee.

Jabed Reza, Member Secretary of Bandarban District BNP, attended the programme as the chief guest.

Speaking at the event, Jabed said the families affected by the fire were going through a difficult time and needed support and assistance.

He assured them that efforts would continue, within available means, to help the affected families return to normal life.

Among others, Lusai Mong, Joint Convener of Bandarban District BNP and a member of the District Council, Jasim Uddin, Chonu Mong Marma and Ma Setu Tong, along with local BNP and affiliated organisation leaders and activists, were present.

Earlier, the District Council also distributed corrugated iron sheets and cash among the affected traders.

The fire broke out at Balipara Bazar in Thanchi Upazila in the early hours of September 16. Thirteen shops were completely gutted in the blaze.

The fire caused an estimated loss of Tk 1.5 crore, including goods stored at the shops, according to local sources.

Local residents said the traders affected by the fire were facing severe financial difficulties. They urged the government and private organisations to provide assistance so that the affected families could be rehabilitated and resume their businesses as soon as possible.