Late night fire guts Siliguri’s Nivedita Market, six shops destroyed

A massive fire broke out at Siliguri’s Nivedita Market late Wednesday night, triggering panic among traders and local residents. The blaze caused extensive damage, reducing several shops to ashes in the densely packed market area.

According to reports, a security guard first noticed flames around 2:30 a.m. and immediately alerted the fire department and shop owners. Due to narrow lanes and closely built structures, the fire spread rapidly, engulfing multiple shops within a short span of time. Local residents rushed to the spot and made initial efforts to control the blaze before the arrival of firefighters. Three fire engines reached the market promptly and battled the flames for nearly one and a half hours before bringing the situation under control.

Siliguri Fire Station Officer Dharmendra Krishna Rai said preliminary findings point towards a short circuit as the possible cause of the fire. However, a detailed investigation has been launched to ascertain the exact reason. Six shops were destroyed in the incident, though no casualties were reported. The incident has left traders shaken and concerned about safety in the market area.