Massive fire breaks out at vegetable market

A major fire incident was reported on Tuesday afternoon in the main vegetable market near Bahadurke Road on Tuesday. The blaze, which started from a large quantity of stacked crates, rapidly escalated, completely destroying temporary sheds and a parked truck in the adjacent fruit market section.

The exact cause of the fire was yet to be ascertained. Fire officials were investigating to find out the case. However, preliminary investigation of the Fire Department found that a spark emanating from the dump ignited surrounding materials, which then spread quickly due to strong winds.

The thick smoke generated widespread alarm among local vendors and residents.

Upon arrival, the first fire tender found the area fully engulfed in flames.

As firefighters were trying to douse the flames, several small explosions were heard. A nearby tea stall, which also caught fire, had LPG cylinders. Firefighters acted swiftly to remove the cylinders from the scene, preventing a major secondary explosion.

A major challenge for the firefighters was managing the large crowd that had gathered, many of whom were taking photos and videos to upload on social media.

Leading fireman Ravi Kumar said it took roughly one hour to extinguish the blaze, utilising four fire tenders. No injuries were sustained, though the incident represents a substantial financial loss for fruit and vegetable vendors.

He also noted the market’s history of similar incidents, mentioning that he had personally responded to several crate fires at the place in the past.