Nagaon (Assam), 08 June (HS): A devastating fire broke out at Shivasthan in Samaguri late Sunday night, reducing six shops at Shivasthan Market to ashes within a short span of time and causing extensive property damage.

According to local sources, the fire erupted around midnight and rapidly spread through the market area, engulfing multiple shops. Goods and property worth nearly ₹50 lakh were reportedly destroyed in the blaze. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.

The incident triggered panic among shop owners and local residents, who rushed to the spot after noticing the flames. Several traders were left in tears as years of investment and valuable merchandise were consumed by the raging fire.

Residents alleged that despite being informed promptly, personnel from the fire station at Sonaibali, located not far from the market, arrived at the scene after a considerable delay. The alleged late response has drawn criticism from locals, who claim that quicker intervention could have helped contain the damage.

An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire, while authorities are assessing the extent of the losses suffered by the affected shop owners.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash