By TC News Desk
Agartala, 13th December 2024: In the early hours of Friday morning, a devastating fire swept through the Kakraban area, reducing three shops to ashes. The incident believed to be a case of arson leaving traders in panic. The shops owned by Dilip Kumar Deb, Swapan Deb, Bishnu Deb and other small traders included sweet shops, vegetable stalls and dry fish vendors. These traders typically opened their shops in the morning and closed them at night, were taken aback when the fire broke out around 4 am.
Affected businessman Swapan Deb recounted the harrowing experience. “At around 4 am, locals noticed smoke emanating from three shops in the Kakraban area. We were immediately informed, and the police and fire brigade rushed to the spot. Despite several hours of effort, the fire completely destroyed the shops,” he said. Deb estimated the damage to be more than Rs 13 lakh and alleged that the fire was a result of sabotage.
The timely arrival of fire engines helped control the blaze, but not before the three shops were reduced to ashes. The incident has created panic among traders in the entire market, with fears of further vandalism.
Upon receiving news of the fire, high-ranking officials, including the SDM, visited the site in the morning. The state government assured assistance to the victims from the disaster relief fund. Initially, Rs 10,000 was provided to the affected traders. “Further financial assistance will be given after a thorough survey to help the traders restart their businesses,” said an official.
The local administration’s swift response has been appreciated, but the incident has highlighted the need for better security measures in the market to prevent such occurrences in the future. The affected traders are now hopeful that the promised aid will help them rebuild their livelihoods.
