Bandarban: Thirteen shops were completely gutted in a fire that broke out at Balipara Bazar in Thanchi upazila of the district early today. The fire erupted around 4am at the market, and in response, firefighters, police, and members of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) rushed to the scene, bringing the blaze under control after nearly an hour of efforts.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Balipara Union Parishad Chairman Jiaong Marma reported that goods and other belongings in the 13 shops were destroyed, resulting in an estimated loss of Taka 1.5 crore. A list of the affected shop owners and vendors is set to be compiled and submitted to Thanchi Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Mohammad Abdullah-Al-Faisal for further action.
In response to the incident, preparations are underway by the union parishad to provide possible assistance and relief materials to the victims of the fire. Thanchi Fire Service Station Master Rahidul Islam Mridha indicated that the fire was initially suspected to have originated from an electrical short circuit, but the actual cause will remain unconfirmed until the investigation is completed.