Major Fire Guts Over 20 Shops in Balasore Market, Losses Estimated Above Rs 5 Crore

Balasore: More than 20 shops were destroyed after a massive fire broke out at Paschimabad market under Jaleswar block in Odisha’s Balasore district in the early hours of Sunday. Property worth over Rs 5 crore is feared to have been lost in the incident.

According to reports, local residents noticed flames and thick smoke rising from several shops at Gothana Haat market around 3.30 am. Traders immediately rushed to the spot and tried to control the blaze while simultaneously informing the fire services department.

However, by the time fire tenders arrived, nearly 20 shops had already been completely gutted by the flames.

The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Officials said goods and valuables worth more than Rs 5 crore were destroyed in the incident.

Locals acted promptly to stop the fire from spreading to nearby establishments, preventing a bigger disaster in the busy market area.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident, while fire officials are assessing the extent of the damage.