Massive Fire Guts 12 Shops at Dhanbad Market

Four Fire Engines Douse Blaze at Steel Gate

Key Points:

• Blaze Destroys Over 12 Shops in Dhanbad
• Four Fire Tenders Deployed to Control Flames
• Arson Angle Suspected by Shopkeepers

DHANBAD – A massive fire broke out at Steel Gate vegetable market in Saraidhela, destroying over 12 shops and causing heavy losses to traders.

The blaze erupted at the vegetable market near Steel Gate. The area falls under Saraidhela police station in Dhanbad.

More than 12 shops were reduced to ashes. Ration, puja and vegetable outlets were completely destroyed.

Flames rose high into the sky. Meanwhile, panic spread rapidly across the market area.

Shopkeepers rushed after receiving the alert. They found their establishments engulfed in flames.

Former MLA and mayoral candidate Sanjeev Singh reached the site. He interacted with traders about their losses.

Victims said their only source of livelihood was gone. However, no casualties were reported in the incident.

Four fire tenders reached the location promptly. Firefighters struggled for hours to contain the blaze.

The fire was brought under control after sustained efforts. Meanwhile, cooling operations continued at the spot.

Shopkeepers alleged repeated fire incidents in the market. They claimed four to five similar cases occurred earlier.

They alleged illegal liquor sale draws anti-social elements at night. However, police have not confirmed the cause.

Sanjeev Singh said he informed the fire brigade immediately. He demanded a high-level inquiry into recurring fires.

He urged authorities and public representatives to support affected traders. Moreover, he called for financial assistance.

Fire brigade chief driver Manzoor Alam described the blaze as severe. He said the exact cause remains under investigation.

Police have initiated a formal probe into the incident. In contrast, traders suspect deliberate arson behind the fire.

Earlier, a highway container fire disrupted traffic in the district.

Another major case involved a cashew factory blaze causing heavy losses.

Authorities are assessing the total damage at Steel Gate. Further action will depend on the investigation findings.