Tazreen factory fire survivor dies after 8 years’ battle

Sharmin Akther (30), who was injured in the fire at Tazreen Fashions factory at Nishchintapur area of Ashulia in Savar on November 24, 2012, has died today. 

She died at her home near Tanpara Tawa Jaam-e Mosque of Yarpur Madhyapara in Ashulia at 9:30am this morning, reports our local correspondent quoting family members.

Her lungs were damaged from the fire and she had been suffering from the problem since then.

However, relatives, co-workers and labour leaders claimed that Sharmin died due to lack of proper treatment.

Nasima Akhter, a co-worker, said that during the fire, Sharmin -- who was pregnant at the time -- fell from the stairs while trying to rush out.

"She was trampled by other workers and got seriously injured. Although her condition had deteriorated, her family could not ensure proper treatment due to lack of money," she claimed.

Rakibul Hasan Sohag, president of Garments Tailors Workers League (Savar Ashulia unit), claimed Sharmin, mother of two, died from not getting proper treatment.

Demanding compensation for the family, he urged concerned authorities to take the responsibilities of her two children.

At least 113 workers were killed and 172 were injured in the fire in 2012.