Severe fire breaks out at Matarbari Power Plant scrap yard

PNN News Desk, Cox’s Bazar

A severe fire broke out inside the coal-based Matarbari Power Plant in Maheshkhali Upazila, Cox’s Bazar. The fire started in the scrap yard of the power plant on Monday (12 January) night. However, authorities have confirmed that the main production units or the boilers of the power plant were not damaged.

Eyewitnesses and related sources reported that around 8 PM, smoke and flames were seen coming from the scrap yard area. Upon learning about the incident, the fire service was immediately informed, and four units from Maheshkhali and Chakaria fire service stations quickly reached the scene to begin controlling the fire. Due to the intensity of the fire, additional units were sent from nearby upazilas.

Despite it being late at night, the fire could not be fully controlled. Fire service officials said that while the fire on one side has been brought under control, new flames keep igniting on the other side, complicating the situation further.

Senior Station Officer of Cox’s Bazar Fire Service, Dolon Acharya, said that multiple units reached the scene immediately after receiving the news and started work to control the fire. Maximum precautions are being taken to prevent the fire from spreading to the main facility.

Maheshkhali Upazila Executive Officer Imran Mahmud Dalim confirmed the incident, stating that the fire occurred in the scrap yard inside the power plant. However, the exact cause of the fire is not yet known. A decision has been made to form an investigation committee to examine the matter.

Meanwhile, sources from the power plant’s control room reported that, due to the fire service's efforts, the fire is largely under control and there has been no damage to electricity production operations.

According to sources related to the power plant, the scrap yard is located within the boundary wall of the power plant in a pond-shaped structure. Various unusable machinery parts and materials were stored there. As the scrap yard is at a relatively safe distance from the main boiler and production areas, major damage was avoided.