Bargarh, Dec 8: A massive fire broke out at a market complex near Bargarh Court late Sunday evening, reducing several shops to ashes and causing losses worth lakhs of rupees.

The incident, which reportedly began with smoke emerging from one of the shops, quickly escalated into a raging blaze that engulfed the premises.

Eyewitnesses said the shops were closed when the fire started, leaving no scope for immediate intervention. The complex housed a variety of establishments, including optical stores, mobile shops, and xerox outlets. Among them, an optical shop was completely gutted, suffering the maximum damage. Local sources estimate the financial loss to be in lakhs, as valuable goods and equipment were destroyed.

Also read: Odisha Shivers as Mercury Dips Below Normal

Residents nearby noticed the smoke and promptly alerted the fire department. Though the fire brigade arrived after some delay, they managed to bring the flames under control and prevent the fire from spreading further.

Locals, however, expressed concern that timely arrival of the fire service could have minimized the extent of damage.

Preliminary reports suggest that the fire may have been triggered by a short circuit, though an official investigation is yet to confirm the cause. The incident has raised questions about fire safety measures in commercial complexes.

The blaze created panic in the area, with people rushing to the spot to help douse the flames before the fire brigade arrived. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported, but the financial setback for shopkeepers is significant.