12 shops gutted at Patuakhali market

At least 12 business establishments were completely gutted in a massive fire at Kalishuri Bazar in Baufal upazila of the district early this morning causing an estimated loss of Taka one crore.

According to local sources, the fire broke out around 4:00 am. Preliminary reports suggest that the blaze may have originated from an electrical short-circuit, though authorities have yet to confirm the exact cause.

The fire engulfed multiple shops, including tea, rice, crockery, jewellery, cosmetics, mobile phone, grocery and photocopy businesses.

Being informed, two firefighting units, led by Warehouse Inspector Sabbir Ahmed, rushed to the scene.

Firefighters battled the flames for nearly two hours before bringing the situation under control.

The affected businessmen have urged authorities to conduct a swift damage assessment and provide necessary financial assistance to recover from the losses.