A fire mishap occurred late Sunday night at the Badapadia vegetable market in Paradip town of Odisha, completely gutting the area and destroying goods and property. The entire market went up in flames around 3:00 am, with the blaze unfolding right before locals’ eyes.
Closely Packed Shops Fuel Rapid Spread
According to reports, with all the shops being closely packed and attached to each other, the fire spread rapidly, causing severe damage. It is suspected that the fire originated in one shop and quickly engulfed the adjacent ones. This market is considered the main vegetable hub of Paradip town, and over seven shops were reduced to ashes in the incident.
Fire Brought Under Control by Two Units
Two teams of fire services department, one from Paradip Port and another from Kujang fire station, reached the spot promptly on getting information about the fire mishap. They managed to bring the flames under control, but not before extensive losses were incurred. All vegetables stored for sale, along with furniture and other belongings, were completely destroyed in the fire.
Cause of Fire Still Unclear
The exact reason behind the mishap remains unclear. The market reportedly lacks a proper electricity connection, raising suspicion over whether the fire may have been caused by a mosquito repellent coil. Fire department officials have confirmed that an investigation is currently underway to determine the exact cause.
Vendors Seek Compensation
Following the incident, affected vegetable vendors have urged the administration to provide compensation, citing their financial difficulties and the extent of their losses.