A cloud of smoke, a roar of flames, and the heart-wrenching cries of frightened birds marked a grim morning at Kapasia Bazar in Gazipur on Wednesday. 

At least 200 birds of various species, beloved companions of local traders, were killed when a sudden fire ravaged the bustling market.

According to Mahfuz Islam, in-charge of Kapasia Fire Service, the fire ignited around 10:15 am in a single shop but quickly consumed four neighbouring shops. 

It spread so fast… by the time we arrived, the flames had already engulfed several shops,” he said. Two firefighting units rushed to the scene and managed to bring the blaze under control within half an hour, but for many, it was too late.

The air was heavy with the scent of smoke and charred wood, and the devastated shop owners could only watch in disbelief as years of care and investment turned to ashes. Shopkeeper Barendra Mandal, whose birds included cockatiels, parrots, pigeons, and doves, spoke through tears. 

I have lost 200 birds today… my little friends who depended on me. They didn’t deserve this,” he said, his voice breaking with grief.

The financial toll was staggering. Shop owners estimated the total loss at around Tk 40 lakh. In addition, bird feed worth approximately Tk 2 lakh, carefully stockpiled to nourish the birds, was destroyed in the blaze.