Bhubaneswar: Panic spread through Unit-I Market early Saturday morning when a major fire broke out, completely destroying two shops and causing damage estimated in several lakhs of rupees.
Sources said the blaze started due to an electrical short circuit in one of the shops shortly around the dawn. The flames quickly spread to the neighbouring establishment, reducing both units to ashes and destroying large quantities of stored goods.
Firefighting teams from Bhubaneswar Fire Station reached the spot promptly. Two fire units were pressed into service and, after sustained efforts lasting several hours, succeeded in completely extinguishing the fire. The timely action prevented the flames from spreading further to other shops and stalls in the busy market.
Eyewitnesses described moments of chaos as shop owners and workers tried to salvage whatever goods they could before the fire intensified.
According to the Assistant Fire Officer, Bhubaneswar, two shops — one grocery store and one khali shop — were affected in the incident. No casualties have been reported.
