Guwahati: A fierce blaze tore through the No. 2 Silkhaguri locality of Bijni in Assam’s Chirang district late Wednesday night, causing extensive financial damage and sending shockwaves through the local community. The incident, which unfolded swiftly, has left residents shaken and raised pressing questions about fire safety preparedness in the area.
The fire reportedly began in a commercial establishment owned by local shopkeeper Shahjahan Ali. Eyewitnesses said the flames erupted suddenly and spread rapidly, completely consuming the shop’s structure along with cash reserves and inventory. Preliminary estimates peg the total losses at over ₹10 lakh. Panic gripped the neighbourhood as thick smoke billowed into the sky and crackling flames threatened nearby properties.
Local residents sprang into action, attempting to control the blaze with water and sand before fire service personnel reached the scene. Firefighters eventually managed to contain the flames, preventing them from spreading further. Fortunately, no injuries or casualties were reported, though the destruction was total.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire, which remains undetermined at this stage. A damage assessment has begun, and officials are expected to announce relief measures for the affected shopkeeper shortly. The incident has reignited debate over the enforcement of fire safety norms in commercial hubs, where basic precautionary measures are often overlooked.
As the community grapples with the aftermath, residents are calling for stricter regulations and better infrastructure to ensure such disasters are prevented in the future.