A fire incident in Bengaluru’s bustling Chickpet market area led to the destruction of 32 shops in the early hours of the day. The incident occurred when most shops were closed, helping prevent any loss of life in one of the city’s oldest and busiest commercial zones.
Swift Response by Fire Services
Fire and emergency services rushed to the spot soon after receiving alerts from local residents and shopkeepers. Multiple fire tenders were deployed to control the situation and prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings in the densely packed market lanes.
Goods Worth Lakhs Reduced to Ashes
Preliminary estimates suggest that garments, electrical items, textiles, and stored stock worth several lakhs of rupees were destroyed. Many shop owners reported heavy losses, as the affected units were small wholesale and retail outlets dependent on daily trade.
Short Circuit Suspected as Possible Cause
According to officials, an electrical short circuit is suspected to be the cause of the fire, though a detailed investigation is underway. Authorities have stated that the exact cause will be confirmed only after a technical inspection of the site.
No Casualties, But Business Owners in Distress
While there were no injuries or fatalities, the incident has left dozens of traders worried about their livelihoods. Several shop owners said they had not insured their stock, making recovery even more challenging.
Authorities Stress Need for Fire Safety
Fire officials have once again highlighted the importance of proper electrical maintenance, fire extinguishers, and clear access routes in crowded market areas like Chickpet, where narrow lanes can delay emergency operations.
A Wake-Up Call for Market Safety
The Chickpet fire stands as a stark reminder that safety measures in traditional markets cannot be ignored. While lives were spared this time, the loss of livelihoods underscores the urgent need for stronger fire safety compliance to protect both people and businesses in the future.
-by Oustfire
