Khulna, Oct 24 (V7N) — A devastating fire broke out in Khulna’s Mujgunni residential area on Thursday afternoon, destroying seven shops, including the local Jamaat-e-Islami office and an electric rickshaw charging station. The blaze erupted around 2 p.m. on Road No. 19 in Ward No. 9, quickly spreading through adjacent stores before firefighters managed to contain it.

According to the Fire Service and Civil Defence, six fire units rushed to the scene and brought the flames under control after about 30 minutes of effort. Despite the quick response, extensive damage had already occurred. Two battery-run rickshaws, one traditional rickshaw, a motorcycle, two refrigerators, and the 9th Ward Jamaat office were completely destroyed in the fire.

One man, identified as Milon, sustained burn injuries during the incident and was admitted to Khulna Medical College Hospital for treatment.

Assistant Director of the Khulna Fire Service, Masud Sardar, said the fire likely originated from an electrical short circuit in front of a grocery shop. “The blaze spread rapidly, burning seven shops and the goods inside. An assessment of total losses is underway,” he told reporters.

Local residents reported panic as thick smoke engulfed the neighborhood, and shopkeepers tried desperately to save their belongings before firefighters arrived. Witnesses said the fire spread swiftly due to the presence of flammable materials inside the garages and electric vehicle charging points.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause and assess the financial losses. Preliminary reports suggest that the total damages could amount to several lakh taka.

The incident has reignited discussions about fire safety compliance in urban areas, where electric rickshaw charging points and makeshift shops often operate with poor electrical infrastructure. Residents urged city officials to enforce stricter safety regulations to prevent similar accidents in the future.

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