Why int'l parcel deliveries remain disrupted two weeks after Dhaka airport fire
The massive fire erupted at on 18 October in the cargo village of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport
More than two weeks after a fire crippled the cargo complex at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, international parcel deliveries continue to face severe disruption due to unresolved clearance bottlenecks and damaged facilities.
Global courier giant DHL, which handles the bulk of Bangladesh's international parcel traffic, has paused all inbound non-document shipments, citing the airport's unpreparedness for normal operations.
"After the fire, the airport is still not ready, so we are not bringing parcels in," said Abul Kashem Chowdhury, director of DHL Express Bangladesh.
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FedEx and other operators are also facing difficulties clearing consignments.
Industry officials said most courier cargo remains stuck as damaged sheds have yet to be replaced, forcing imported goods to be stored outdoors.
Limited storage space, missing shipments and procedural complications have further slowed the clearance process.
Authorities claim operations are ongoing around the clock, but courier representatives and clearing agents have been accused of delays in collecting goods.
Meanwhile, civil aviation authorities have advised airlines to avoid carrying import cargo until facilities are restored.
With nearly 70% of air courier shipments dependent on DHL and FedEx, the standstill has paralysed import-dependent sectors — particularly garments and pharmaceuticals — as key samples and materials remain stranded overseas.
The massive fire erupted at around 2:30pm on 18 October in the cargo village of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and was brought under control by intense joint efforts by the fire service, armed forces and civil aviation authorities.
