Dhaka: The probe committee today confirmed that no fire incident took place at the Foreign Service Academy (FSA) during Monday's dialogue between the National Consensus Commission and the political parties.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the investigation found no evidence of any fire or smoke on the premises following the sudden activation of the building's fire alarm system, as stated in an official handout referring to the committee. On Monday, the fire alarm was triggered around midday during the high-level talks, prompting immediate action by academy authorities to identify any potential source of fire or smoke.
In response to the incident, the academy swiftly formed a five-member committee to conduct a detailed investigation. The committee, comprising relevant technical and administrative experts, visited the site, interviewed eyewitnesses, and analyzed the fire alarm system's operation before submitting its report.
The committee reported that the academy's staff responded promptly and deactivated the alarm as part of their emergency protocol. They cited several possible causes for the false activation, including fluctuations in humidity and temperature, as well as the presence of dust particles or insects within the smoke detectors.
In its recommendations, the committee advised a series of preventive and modernization measures considering the strategic importance of the Foreign Service Academy. These include the installation of clear signage, adoption of a comprehensive fire safety plan, and upgrading of existing fire safety equipment, the handout added.