At least 63 students were admitted to the National Burn and Plastic Surgery Institute in Dhaka on Tuesday morning after a fire broke out at Jamia Ashrafia Madrasa in the Signboard area of Fatullah, Narayanganj. Hospital sources confirmed that four of the injured students are in critical condition.

Dr. Sultan Mahmud Shikder, resident surgeon at the National Burn and Plastic Surgery Institute, told Prothom Alo on Tuesday morning, "Four of the injured students are in critical condition. One of them is on life support."

Origin of the Fire

According to Fire Service sources, the fire broke out around 2:00 am on Tuesday in the library and office rooms located on the second floor of the madrasa's five-story building. The flames quickly spread across the two rooms, which cover an area of approximately 4,000 square feet.

Rescue and Firefighting Operations

Upon receiving the alert, three units from the Kanchpur Modern Fire Station and two units from the Shibu Market Modern Fire Station rushed to the scene and began firefighting operations. After the blaze was brought under control, students were rescued from the building and transported to the hospital. A total of 63 students were admitted to the Burn Institute with breathing difficulties and other complications caused by smoke inhalation.

Investigation and Next Steps

The Fire Service has not yet officially determined the cause of the fire. Authorities said an investigation is underway to assess the extent of the damage and confirm the final casualty figures. Medical treatment for the injured students is ongoing.