Tuptup Resto & Resort, a wooden resort near Inani beach in Ukhiya upazila of Cox’s Bazar where a major fire left at least 10 people dead, did not have a fire service licence.

The resort was inspected in June and warned that it is risky, with a notice also issued, but its operation continued, said Director General of Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD) Brigadier General Sultanul Afreen Zunaid.

He came up with the comment while responding to questions from reporters at a press briefing on fire safety during Durga Puja at the Fire Service headquarters on Saturday noon.

He said the three-storey resort had a restaurant on the ground floor where food was prepared, while the second and third floors were used for tourist accommodation.

Asked about the failure to renew the licence and the continuation of operation despite warnings, he said the resort had not been operating in accordance with the rules.

The Fire Service received information about the fire at around 7:30am on Saturday.

The nearest fire station was 22 kilometres from the site and firefighters rushed to the scene and worked to bring the blaze under control, he said.

Asked about the cause of the fire, the director general said a thorough investigation is  needed to know what happened.

Responding to another questions about the safety and approval status of resorts built with wood and other flammable materials in Cox’s Bazar and other tourist destinations across the country, he said many have not obtained the necessary permissions.

The Fire Service would take steps to issue notices to the relevant establishments after discussions with the parties concerned, he said.

He also stressed the need to convey fire safety messages through the Cox’s Bazar Development Authority and relevant associations.

Warning that the risk of such accidents could increase during the coming dry season, he urged all concerned to remain alert.

Asked what action could be taken against risky establishments that continue operating despite notices, the director general said the Fire Service would review its responsibilities and explore ways to ensure safety despite limitations in existing laws and monitoring.

On frequent fires in Old Dhaka, including risks posed by unauthorised factories, warehouses and explosive materials, he identified narrow roads and insufficient space between buildings in densely populated areas as major challenges.

These condition makes it difficult for firefighting vehicles and equipment to reach incident sites quickly.

He said compliance with relevant regulations and building codes is essential during construction.

However, introducing all necessary safety measures simultaneously in older settlements and structures is practically difficult and would require time.

Authorities are repeatedly raising awareness among those involved in constructing new buildings and establishing businesses to ensure compliance with the rules.

The director general also outlined plans to improve the Fire Service’s operational capacity in densely populated areas.

These include considering specialised three-wheeled vehicles to reach locations with narrow roads more quickly, he said.

It is also considering whether firefighters could carry hosepipes on motorcycles and connect them to water reservoirs in nearby buildings to help extinguish fires, he added.