Agartala, 26th October 2026 : A major fire broke out in a heap of accumulated garbage at Kali Bazar in Bamutia on the evening of Lakshmi Puja, triggering panic among local traders and residents. Several shops in the market narrowly escaped destruction as traders rushed to control the blaze before personnel from the Mohanpur Fire Service arrived and brought the situation under control.
The incident has once again highlighted the fire safety concerns in Bamutia, where the nearest fire station is located around 16 to 17 kilometres away. Local residents and the administration suspect that fireworks may have triggered the blaze, although the exact cause has not been confirmed.
Kali Bazar, under the Purba Bamutia Gram Panchayat in Mohanpur subdivision, is the largest government-managed market in the Bamutia Assembly constituency. Despite regular revenue collection, traders allege that the authorities have failed to ensure proper waste disposal. Large heaps of garbage have accumulated in the market, creating unhygienic conditions and posing a recurring fire hazard.
The market also reportedly lacks basic facilities such as a water pump and functional toilets. The stench from the accumulated waste has made conditions difficult for both shoppers and shopkeepers, who often have to cover their noses while conducting their daily activities.
The latest incident has revived concerns over the absence of a nearby fire station. Due to the considerable distance from Mohanpur, fire engines often take time to reach the affected locations, increasing the risk of damage to shops and other properties.
Recently, a sweet-making workshop at Kali Bazar was completely destroyed in a similar fire, adding to the concerns of local traders.
Following the Lakshmi Puja incident, residents and traders have renewed their demand for a dedicated fire station in Bamutia. They have also called for regular garbage clearance and the introduction of basic civic amenities at the market to prevent similar incidents and improve safety.
