Noakhali, Jan 12 (V7N) — A devastating fire engulfed 12 shops in Maijdi, the district town of Noakhali, in the early hours of Saturday, causing damage worth several crores of taka, according to affected traders. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.

The fire erupted at approximately 12:30 am, south of the Hawkers Market on the city's main road. Locals reported that just 30 minutes after shopkeepers closed their businesses, flames were seen emerging from Nupur Market, located adjacent to the Hawkers Market. The fire rapidly spread, consuming 12 shops in its path.

Abdullah Harun Pasha, Deputy Assistant Director of Maijdi Fire Service Station, stated that 13 units of the fire service responded immediately to the emergency. After battling the flames for over an hour and a half, the fire was finally brought under control.

The cause of the fire remains uncertain, though an electrical short circuit is suspected. The exact extent of the damage is yet to be officially assessed.

The army and police were present to assist in controlling the situation, ensuring that the fire did not spread further.

This tragic incident has left shop owners in despair, with many calling for enhanced safety measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.

END/MSS/AJ