Bhubaneswar: A massive fire broke out at Tarini Market in Odisha capital late on Wednesday, destroying more than 15 vegetable shops and a nearby furniture showroom.
According to sources, the blaze erupted around midnight at the market near Kalinga Studio Square in Bharatpur area. Thi
ck smoke alerted residents as flames rapidly spread through the makeshift shops. Shop owners and local residents initially tried to douse the flames but failed.
Fire Service personnel reached the spot after receiving information. Though firefighters managed to bring it under control, the damage was already done.
Many shopkeepers suffered heavy losses in the mishap. “I was sleeping outside the showroom when the fire started. My whole shop was destroyed with goods inside it. I have suffered losses of Rs 10 lakh,” owner of the furniture shop told a news channel.
Though cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, there are growing suspicions of deliberate arson, the sources added.