Fires in Cox's Bazar refugee campsCEFR A2
3 Mar 2026
Adapted from Zulker Naeen, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Naimul Islam, Unsplash
Between May 2018 and December 2025 there were many fires in the Cox's Bazar refugee settlements. These fires affected a large number of people and destroyed thousands of shelters.
Big blazes caused heavy damage. On 22 March 2021 a fire in Camp 9 killed people and forced tens of thousands to move. On 5 March 2023 a fire in Camp 11 destroyed many shelters and later was called "planned sabotage." On 7 January 2024 a fire in Camp 5 destroyed hundreds of shelters and displaced thousands, including many children.
Fires spread fast because shelters are made of bamboo and plastic, paths are narrow and water is often limited. Aid groups give emergency help but long-term plans are delayed.
Difficult words
- settlement — a place where people live togethersettlements
- shelter — a simple place for people to sleepshelters
- blaze — a large and dangerous fireblazes
- displace — to make people leave their homesdisplaced
- sabotage — an action that damages something on purpose
- emergency — a sudden dangerous situation needing fast help
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How could shelters be made safer to stop fires spreading?
- What is one problem people face after a fire in the camps?
- How can aid groups help families after a fire besides emergency help?
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