Panic gripped the busy Gurandi market area on Sunday morning after a sudden fire broke out in scrap shops, engulfing four establishments within minutes. The incident, which occurred around 9 am, is suspected to have been caused by a short circuit or presence of inflammable material. According to information, the fire started in a scrap shop and quickly spread to nearby establishments, taking a fierce turn. Being a Sunday, the market was crowded and the sudden blaze created chaos as shopkeepers and visitors rushed out to safety. Thick smoke and flames spread across the area, leaving people in fear for hours. On receiving information, the fire brigade rushed to the spot with six fire tenders. Despite facing difficulties due to narrow lanes and congestion in the market, fire fighters managed to bring the situation under control after tireless efforts.

 

Timely action helped prevent the flames from spreading further and avoided a major disaster. Spokesman of Fire Department said that had the fire brigade not reached in time, the incident could have caused extensive damage in the densely packed market. No casualties have been reported, but goods worth lakhs of rupees were destroyed in the fire. Following the incident, concerned authorities have started an inquiry to ascertain the exact cause. Preliminary findings point towards a short circuit or highly inflammable material as possible reasons. It may be noted that a similar fire incident was reported in the market few days back, when a wholesale incense sticks shop was gutted. The recurrence of such incidents has raised concerns over fire safety measures in the area.