Massive Fire Destroys Over 100 Shops in Cumilla

The fire broke out around midnight on Sunday, spreading rapidly and devastating the market. Firefighters from six units battled the blaze for more than three hours before bringing it under control at around 3:30 a.m. on December 30, according to fire officials.

The fire caused significant traffic disruptions, creating a long tailback on the highway. Local traders, alongside community members, joined firefighters in a desperate effort to control the flames.

Madhaiya Bazaar Traders Association President KM Jamal shared the impact, saying, "Over 100 shops have been completely destroyed. Most of us have lost everything, and we are still trying to assess the full extent of the damage."

While the cause of the fire remains unclear, officials from the Cumilla Fire Service and Civil Defence have confirmed that the blaze originated from a sweets shop. The intensity of the fire caused it to spread rapidly throughout the marketplace.

In response to the overwhelming blaze, four additional firefighting units from Daudkandi and the Cumilla fire stations were deployed, joining the two units that had initially arrived from the Chandina station. Together, they managed to control the fire after three and a half hours of intense effort.

Thankfully, no casualties have been reported at this time. Investigations into the cause of the fire and the full extent of the damage are ongoing.