Paradip: A devastating fire ripped through the main household goods market in Paradip late last night, reducing more than 50 shops to ashes and causing massive financial losses to local traders.
The blaze erupted around 2 am in the bustling market area, which serves as the primary hub for household goods in the trading community of Paradip. Flames quickly spread across the makeshift shops constructed with bamboo and tarpaulin sheets, completely destroying goods including money, vegetables, computer hardware, bicycles, and other essential items.
Five fire tenders from the local fire department rushed to the spot and battled the inferno for hours before bringing it under control. No casualties were reported, but the destruction left dozens of shopkeepers in despair.
The market has long been a lifeline for residents and traders, yet vendors have repeatedly demanded a permanent vending zone with proper infrastructure. Past incidents, including smaller fires that gutted shops, highlighted the risks of temporary structures, but no concrete action was taken.
The exact cause remains under investigation, with preliminary suspicions pointing to a mosquito coil left burning or an electrical short circuit in the congested, makeshift setup.
Traders have urged immediate government intervention for rehabilitation and safer market facilities to prevent future tragedies.
