Siliguri, 28th September: A devastating fire broke out at Siliguri’s Bidhan Market on Saturday morning, leaving several traders in despair just before the Durga Puja celebrations.
As per reports, the inferno, which started around 10 a.m., quickly spread through the market, engulfing 10 shop entirely and causing partial damage to 12-14 other establishments.
The traders complained that despite immediate calls to the fire brigade, there was a significant delay in their response. Initially, two small fire engines arrived, but one experienced issues. A larger engine was dispatched later, but by that time, the fire had spread across the market.
Local authorities, including Siliguri Mayor Gautam Deb, Deputy Mayor Ranjan Sarkar, and MLA Shankar Ghosh, rushed to the scene. MLA Ghosh also coordinated with the Border Security Force (BSF) to deploy additional engines. In total, 7-8 fire engines worked tirelessly for nearly four hours to bring the blaze under control.
The fire has resulted in the destruction of shops dealing in clothes, cosmetics, shoes, and electronics, causing financial losses estimated to be in the crores. With Durga Puja just around the corner, the traders are left in shock and dismay.
Adding to their distress, the affected shop owners, who do not hold ownership of their shops, are ineligible for insurance claims. The members of the Byabasayee Samiti expressed their frustration, as they grapple with the loss just days before the festive season.