Fire destroys 2 shops in Dhalgarwad area

A major fire broke out in the heavily congested Dhalgarwad area of the city late on Tuesday night. Readymade garments worth about Rs. 2 crore were destroyed as fire fighters battled the blaze for over five hours to bring it under control.

No injuries were reported in the fire but two three-storey shops — Sabuwala and Company and Bombay Men’s Wear — were reduced to ashes. Although the exact cause of the fire has not been ascertained as yet, an electric short circuit seems to be the most likely reason.

Fire Brigade officials said the damage could have been reduced considerably, but it was difficult to move fire fighters and water tankers in the congested area. The Dhalgarwad market is mainly lined with clothes shops.

In-charge chief fire officer, five station officers and over 100 firemen battled the fire until 5.10 am on Wednesday, when it was brought under control. Six fire-fighting machines and 14 tankers were used in the operation.

Luckily the narrow lanes were empty as the fire broke out at 11:35 pm. Firemen involved in the operation said there would have been a stampede had it occurred during rush hours. With two-wheelers parked in the streets during the day, entering the lanes would have been practically impossible.

Firemen said the fire could well have spread to many other shops had it taken place during the day.

"Traders occupy more than half of the lane and fire fighters would not be able to enter," fireman Govindbhai said.

The Fire Brigade officials approached the site from three different directions before putting it out. They also found it difficult to remove the vehicles after the fire was put out.

Republished from Indian Express