Nation to mourn Savar victims Thursday

The government has announced a national mourning for Thursday in memory of the victims of the Savar building collapse, the Cabinet Secretary says.Md Musharraf Hossain Bhuiyan said the national flag will fly half-mast.
At least 80 people have been killed and over 800 injured as the multi-storied Rana Plaza caved in at Savar early Wednesday.


Rescue efforts are underway.
He said special prayers will be held at places of worship for the dead.

In Parliament, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina also announced the national mourning. But, she said public offices will operate normally as it is not a holiday.

Both she and Opposition Leader Khaleda Zia have offered condolences to the victims.

The opposition alliance has withdrawn its nationwide shutdown to facilitate rescue work.

Rescuers fear the number of casualties might go up further.