The affected factories include HB Fashions, HKTG Garments, and Chumki Apparels.
According to The Business Standard, the suspension is temporary and follows technical assessments that identified alleged structural risks in the building.
The decision was made after a 2 July meeting of the Regional Crisis Prevention Committee at the Chattogram Circuit House, where the RMG Sustainability Council (RSC) presented a technical evaluation warning that continued garment operations could endanger lives and property.
The RSC recommended several steps, including vacating dangerous sections of the premises, removing excessive loads, installing temporary structural supports, and halting all operations until repairs are complete and a further technical assessment has been conducted.
HB Fashions reportedly occupies all floors of the building, with HKTG Garments and Chumki Apparels operating from the ground, first, and second floors.
The Business Standard noted that Chumki Apparels had already been closed for approximately seven years for financial reasons, while around 1,300 workers are employed across the other two factories.
Before the suspension, the DIFE reportedly instructed these factories to stop production until the building's safety was verified.
Chattogram deputy commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah emphasised that safeguarding workers' lives takes precedence over business interests, stating that Bangladesh cannot afford another industrial tragedy like Rana Plaza. Production at the building would only resume after it was repaired and certified safe, he said.
DIFE deputy inspector general Mohammad Mahbubul Hasan also backed the suspension, saying it was necessary to protect workers.
Meanwhile, HKTG Garments managing director Enamul Aziz Chowdhury reportedly criticised the abruptness of the shutdown, voicing worry for the 300 to 350 affected workers. He stated that 70%-80% of renovations had already been completed and that unsafe areas had been vacated.
IPSA advocacy head Mohammad Ali Shaheen called on the administration to safeguard jobs while ensuring work continued in secure locations.
Chumki Apparels managing director Abu Haider Chowdhury said renovations continue in line with the committee’s instructions and the factory would reopen after necessary repairs.
