Hailakandi (Assam), 25 July (HS): A devastating fire broke out at Joykrishnapur Market in Assam's Hailakandi district last night, reducing at least 22 shops to ashes and causing property damage worth several crore rupees, according to preliminary reports.

The blaze spread rapidly through the market, engulfing several commercial establishments before firefighters brought the situation under control. No casualties have been reported so far. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, while authorities are assessing the extent of the losses.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash