Bongaigaon, Assam, April 8:
A major fire incident in Assam’s Abhayapuri town has left a trail of destruction after at least 14 commercial establishments were gutted in the Threeniali Market area late Tuesday night. The blaze, which reportedly began around 1 a.m. in the Ghilaguri locality, spread rapidly through the densely packed market, causing significant financial losses and disrupting livelihoods.
Local authorities confirmed on Wednesday that the fire intensified after two LPG cylinders stored inside a roadside hotel exploded, accelerating the spread of flames across adjacent shops. Firefighters were eventually able to contain the blaze after hours of effort, preventing further damage to nearby structures.
Extent of Damage and Affected Establishments
The fire tore through a diverse mix of small businesses that form the backbone of the local economy. Among the establishments destroyed were grocery stores, tea stalls, an online café, clothing and footwear outlets, a salon, a general store, a Pooja goods shop, and a Xerox centre.
These businesses, many of which were family-run, were reduced to ashes within hours. Preliminary estimates suggest that the total loss of property and goods ranges between ₹80 lakh and ₹90 lakh. However, officials indicated that a detailed assessment is still underway and the final figure could vary.
Residents in the area described the fire as one of the most destructive incidents in recent years, given the concentration of shops in a relatively small marketplace. The close proximity of the establishments, combined with flammable materials stored inside, contributed to the rapid escalation.
Firefighting Efforts and Emergency Response
Upon receiving alerts, the Abhayapuri fire brigade quickly dispatched personnel and equipment to the site. Firefighters faced considerable challenges due to the intensity of the flames and the explosions caused by LPG cylinders.
Eyewitnesses reported that the explosions created panic among residents and shopkeepers living nearby, forcing many to evacuate their homes in the middle of the night. Despite these hurdles, fire personnel worked continuously for several hours before bringing the situation under control.
Officials noted that timely intervention helped prevent the fire from spreading to nearby residential areas, which could have led to a larger disaster.
Possible Cause Under Investigation
While the exact cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed, initial reports point to a possible electrical short circuit as the trigger. Authorities have not ruled out other possibilities and are conducting a thorough investigation.
Police officials and representatives from the local administration have begun collecting evidence from the site, including examining electrical wiring, equipment, and the remains of affected structures. Statements from shop owners and witnesses are also being recorded to piece together the sequence of events.
Experts often cite faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and lack of regular maintenance as common causes of such fires in commercial areas, especially in smaller towns where safety standards may not always be strictly enforced.
Official Response
Local authorities acknowledged the scale of the incident and assured that a detailed inquiry is underway. Officials emphasized the need to determine the precise cause to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
They also indicated that relief measures may be considered for affected shopkeepers, though no formal announcement had been made at the time of reporting. Discussions are expected to take place regarding compensation and rehabilitation support.
Context: Fire Safety Concerns in Local Markets
Incidents like this highlight ongoing concerns about fire safety in traditional market areas across India. Many such markets operate in tightly packed spaces with limited access for emergency vehicles. The use of LPG cylinders, electrical appliances, and combustible materials further increases the risk.
In several cases nationwide, fires have been linked to outdated electrical infrastructure or lack of proper safety measures such as fire extinguishers, alarms, and clear evacuation routes. Authorities have periodically issued guidelines for shop owners, but enforcement remains inconsistent.
The Abhayapuri incident underscores the need for stricter compliance with safety norms, regular inspections, and awareness among business owners about preventive measures.
Impact on Local Community and Economy
The destruction of 14 establishments has dealt a significant blow to the local economy, particularly for small traders who depend on daily business for their livelihood. Many shop owners reportedly lost not only their inventory but also essential equipment and documents.
For workers employed in these shops, the incident has created immediate uncertainty regarding income and employment. In smaller towns like Abhayapuri, such disruptions can have a ripple effect on the broader community, affecting supply chains and consumer access to essential goods.
Residents also expressed concerns about the time it will take for the market to recover and rebuild. Temporary arrangements may be required to ensure continuity of business for affected traders.
What Happens Next
Authorities are expected to complete their investigation in the coming days, after which a clearer picture of the cause and accountability will emerge. Based on the findings, steps may be taken to strengthen fire safety regulations in the area.
Meanwhile, local administration officials are likely to assess the feasibility of providing financial assistance or relief packages to those impacted. Community support and possible government intervention will play a crucial role in helping affected families and businesses recover.
As cleanup operations continue, the focus remains on restoring normalcy while addressing the systemic gaps that may have contributed to the incident.
Inputs and images : Hindusthan Samachar
Edited By E. Devanshi varma
Also Read: Fake RSS Letter Row Escalates: 5 Key Claims as BJP’s Rajiv Tuli Targets Congress
Follow us on Google News: Click Here
