Guwahati: A massive fire that started in the Naharlagun daily market in Arunachal Pradesh destroyed over 700 shops, said the chairman of the market on Tuesday.
There have been no casualties associated with the incident as far. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.
Although the precise amount of property loss has not yet been determined, initial reports indicate that the figures are on the higher side.
Kripa Nai, the chairman of the Naharlagun Bazar Committee, charged carelessness on the part of the local fire department.
“Despite the incident spot being approximately 20 meters away from the office of the Naharalagun Fire Department as both are separated by a road only, the officials delayed in service and failed to control it,” said Kirpa Nai.
The store owners yelled slogans denouncing the fire department’s carelessness to vent their displeasure.
According to reports, the fire first spread to two shops and lasted for two hours before the fire service was able to put it out.
Kirpa Nai, the chairman of the Naharlagun Bazar Committee, has sought the dismissal of all the staff members and fire department personnel who were on duty when the tragedy occurred.
Additionally, the shop owners requested reimbursement from the government.
Further details into the matter are awaited.