Bhubaneswar: A devastating fire broke out at Bhubaneswar’s Unit-1 Market around 2 am, engulfing approximately 50 shops and causing widespread destruction. The blaze was finally brought under control after a 3-hour effort by 13 fire tenders.
According to reports, the fire, which started in one of the grocery shops, quickly spread to nearby stores due to the presence of inflammable materials. Over 70 firefighters, led by senior fire officials, and two units of the Striking Fire Force were deployed for rescue operations and to douse the flames. The fire was doused using chemical foam compound, fire proximity suits, JCB machines, and robotic monitors, which played a key role.
It is learnt that property worth ₹1 crore was destroyed in the blaze.
Traders said the fire likely spread from one shop to others, but the exact cause remains unclear. Local police has meanwhile launched an investigation, reviewing CCTV footage.
Meanwhile, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Mayor visited the scene to take stock of the situation.
The incident has raised concerns over fire safety measures in congested trading zones, with traders suffering extensive property losses.
