On Tuesday afternoon (August 5, 2025), during a large gathering at Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka organized to mark “July Uprising Day,” a fire suddenly broke out from a speaker’s electrical wire. The flames quickly spread to a set of decorative balloons filled with gas, leading to panic and injuries. According to eyewitnesses, at least 12 people were injured in the incident. Emergency services rushed to the scene shortly after.
Announcer Called for Calm
Right after the fire broke out, the host of the event urged the crowd to remain calm. Over the loudspeaker, he said:
“স্পিকারের তারে আগুন ধরে গেছে। আয়োজকরা বিষয়টি দেখুন। সবাই শান্ত থাকুন, বক্স থেকে দূরে সরে যান।”
“The speaker’s wire has caught fire. Organizers, please check. Everyone, please stay calm and move away from the box.”
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Symbolic Balloons Marked Historic Escape
Organizers had released helicopter-shaped balloons into the sky at 2:25 PM to mark the exact time when former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country during the people’s uprising last year on this day.
“গত বছরের এই দিনে ক্ষমতাচ্যুত প্রধানমন্ত্রী শেখ হাসিনা পালানোর মুহূর্তে আজ মঙ্গলবার উড়ানো হয় হেলিকপ্টার বেলুন।”
“Helicopter-shaped balloons were flown today, Tuesday, to mark the moment former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country on this day last year.”
The balloons were part of a symbolic act to commemorate the fall of the old regime and the spirit of resistance from 2024’s uprising at Manik Mia Avenue Event.
Massive Crowd Witnessed the Incident
Hundreds of people had gathered to attend the program, including youth activists, students, and members of the public. The unexpected fire created panic, but the situation was brought under control quickly. Investigation Underway
Organizers stated they are investigating the cause of the electrical fault and ensuring that such incidents do not repeat in future events.
Source: Kaler Kantho
