Basudevpur, Bhadrak: A major fire broke out at Basudevpur Main Market in Odisha’s Bhadrak district late Wednesday night, triggering panic among shopkeepers and local residents.
The blaze was reported near College Chhak, one of the busy areas of the market. According to preliminary information, a short circuit is suspected to have triggered the fire.
Three establishments, including an electrical goods shop and two shops dealing in steel railings, were affected by the incident. A substantial amount of property and materials stored inside the shops were reportedly destroyed in the blaze.
Fire Erupts Late at Night
The incident took place late Wednesday night when flames were noticed in the market area near College Chhak.
After receiving information about the fire, the Basudevpur Fire Services team immediately reached the location and launched firefighting operations.
Firefighters worked to contain the flames and prevent the blaze from spreading to neighbouring shops and other structures in the crowded market area.
After sustained efforts, the fire was eventually brought under control.
Three Shops Completely Gutted
Despite the timely firefighting response, the intensity of the blaze resulted in extensive damage.
An electrical goods shop and two steel railing shops were reportedly gutted. The materials and other property kept inside the establishments were also destroyed in the fire.
The preliminary assessment suggests that property worth lakhs of rupees may have been damaged. The exact value of the losses is yet to be determined.
The incident has once again highlighted the potential fire risks in busy commercial areas, where electrical faults can quickly lead to significant damage.
Short Circuit Suspected as Cause
A short circuit is suspected to be the cause of the fire, although the exact reason behind the incident has not yet been officially established.
Further investigation is expected to determine how the fire started and whether any electrical fault or other factor contributed to the incident.
At the time of reporting, an official response regarding the incident and the extent of the damage was not available.
Investigation Underway
No casualties or injuries were reported in the preliminary information available about the incident.
Authorities are expected to assess the damage and investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire. The affected shop owners will also have to assess their losses following the destruction of their goods and property.
The incident has raised concerns among local traders about fire safety and electrical hazards in the market area, particularly in densely packed commercial establishments.
