Alipurduar, 22nd November: A devastating fire broke out early in the morning in the Hatkhola area of Hamiltonganj, Kalchini block that destroyed two shops. The fire occurred around 5 AM on Friday, engulfing the stores of local businessmen Swapan Das and Shantanu Das.
According to reports, the fire quickly spread and escalated, prompting an immediate response from the fire department. Two fire engines arrived at the scene and after over two hours of valiant efforts the blaze was brought under control.
The cause of the fire is still unclear, and investigations are underway. Swapan Das, one of the affected shopkeepers, reported that he had goods worth approximately ₹1.5 lakh in his shop, all of which were completely destroyed. Another shopkeeper, Shantanu Das, who ran a store selling tea cups and various steel items, said the damage amounted to nearly ₹2.5 lakh.
The residents are shocked by the extent of the damage, while authorities are working to determine the cause of the fire.