Fire kills 78 in Dhaka, Bangladesh

A fast-moving fire has killed at least 78 when it swept through a historic district of Bangladesh capital Dhaka.

The blaze broke out on last night in a residential building that had flammable chemicals stored on one floor.

A police chief Javeb Patoway said the blaze was fuelled by pick-up vans in the area that carried gas cylinders.

Fire fighters struggled to put out the blaze, but it was hindered by the narrow lanes and lack of water sources.

Prime Minister Sheik Hasina expressed her shock over the tragedy and conveyed condolences to those affected.