Dhaka, Feb 28 (V7N) — A massive fire tore through Shewrapara Kitchen Market early Friday, reducing most shops to ashes and causing significant financial losses, according to the Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD).

Rakibul Hasan, a duty officer at FSCD headquarters, confirmed that the fire originated in a shop near Shewrapara Metro Station on Begum Rokeya Sarani. Authorities were alerted around 2:42 a.m., prompting an immediate response from three firefighting units. As the flames spread, five additional units joined the operation.

Firefighters battled the inferno for 45 minutes before bringing it under control. The fire was fully extinguished by 5:50 a.m., Hasan said. However, the cause of the blaze and the total extent of the damage remain under investigation.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and devastation. Local resident Harunur Rashid recounted waking up to smoke filling his home in the middle of the night. "When we came out, we saw the fire raging through the market," he said.

Several shops located under a six-story building were also affected by the blaze. Traders reported widespread destruction, with most businesses gutted by the flames.

In a separate incident, authorities have advised tourists to avoid Sajek Valley following another devastating fire in the popular hill destination.

END/AJ/RH