Massive Fire Ravages Unit‑1 Market in Bhubaneswar, Over 40 Shops Destroyed
Bhubaneswar witnessed a devastating fire in the early hours of Tuesday when flames engulfed Unit‑1 Market, reducing more than 40 shops and vending carts to ashes.
The blaze, which began around 1:45 am near the Capital Police Station at an idol shop, spread rapidly, fueled by plastic goods and LPG cylinder explosions.
Firefighters deployed 13 tenders, robotic monitors, and a specialised striking force team to battle the inferno.
Nearly 70 personnel and 10 officers worked tirelessly for three hours to bring the situation under control. A parking space behind the shops acted as a natural barrier, preventing the fire from spreading further.
While no casualties were reported, traders suffered heavy financial losses. Many lamented that their decades‑old businesses were destroyed, with damages estimated in lakhs.
One trader reported a loss of nearly Rs 3 lakh, noting that his shop had been operating for 40 years.
The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated a damage assessment. Commissioner Chanchal Rana stated that traders had ignored advisories against selling plastic items, which worsened the fire’s intensity.
The government has assured assistance to affected traders, and a detailed investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the incident.
