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A devastating fire broke out at Unit-I Market in Bhubaneswar late at night, completely gutting around_toggle 40 shops and causing heavy financial losses to local traders. The blaze reportedly started after most shops had closed, allowing the fire to spread rapidly before it was noticed.

Fire Services were alerted by local residents who saw thick smoke and flames rising from the market complex. Multiple fire tenders were rushed to the spot, and firefighters battled the inferno for several hours before bringing it under control. By the time the flames were doused, several rows of shops had been reduced to ashes.

Preliminary assessment suggests that highly inflammable materials stored inside the shops may have intensified the fire. Fortunately, no casualties were reported as the market was closed at the time of the incident. However, traders have suffered major losses, with goods, furniture, and equipment completely destroyed.

Police cordoned off the area to prevent further danger and assist fire personnel during the operation. Power supply to the market and nearby areas was temporarily disconnected as a precautionary measure.

The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined, though officials suspect a possible short circuit. A detailed investigation has been initiated to ascertain the reason behind the incident. Authorities have assured affected shop owners that necessary steps will be taken to assess the damage and provide assistance as per government norms.

The incident has once again raised concerns over fire safety arrangements in crowded market areas of the city, especially during late-night hours.

According to local shopkeepers, the fire spread rapidly due to the close spacing of shops and the presence of combustible materials such as plastic goods, textiles, and wooden fixtures. Many traders arrived at the market after receiving late-night calls, only to find their shops completely destroyed.

Eyewitnesses said flames were visible from a considerable distance, creating panic among residents in nearby localities. Firefighters faced difficulties entering narrow lanes of the market area, which delayed efforts to contain the blaze in its initial stages.

Officials from the Fire Services Department stated that the situation was brought under control after sustained efforts, preventing the fire from spreading to adjacent residential buildings. Cooling operations continued for several hours to rule out the possibility of flare-ups.

District administration officials visited the site on Wednesday morning to take stock of the situation. A preliminary damage assessment is underway, and a detailed report will be prepared to determine the total loss incurred by traders.

Meanwhile, affected shop owners have urged the authorities to provide immediate relief and compensation, stating that many of them depended solely on their shops for livelihood. They also demanded improved fire safety infrastructure and regular inspections in major market areas.

The incident has once again highlighted the need for strict enforcement of fire safety norms in congested commercial hubs across Bhubaneswar.