Massive fire in Jalpaiguri leaves 150 shops gutted

A massive fire broke out in the Deen Bazaar area of Jalpaiguri on Thursday, leaving around 150 shops gutted.

Among the shops which were affected by the fire were six housing firecrackers.

"The situation is now under control. A team of twelve fire engines have fought from 12.25 am for over five hours to put out the fire", fire officer Prabol Modok said.

First spotted at around 11.25pm, the fire spread wildly across the market. The reason behind the fire is thought to be a short circuit.

"Two to three gas cylinders had burst. People were running for their lives. There was utter chaos. The fire cracker shops in the market resulted in a wildfire," Nomita Das, a local resident told ANI.

Jalpaiguri, Siliguri and Coochbehar Zilla rescue teams had also arrived at the spot. The local administration has also extended a co-operative hand.

No casualties have been reported so far.