Agartala, 23rd August 2026 : A devastating fire broke out in the Rajbari area of Dharmanagar, destroying a tyre shop, a garage and a welding workshop, causing significant losses to the businesses.
According to affected businessman Pinku Shil, electricity supply in the area had remained shut throughout the day. Between around 2:30 pm and 3:00 pm, he switched off the main power line to his shop, locked the premises and left for home.
Shortly afterwards, local residents noticed a burning smell coming from the shop and informed him over the phone. Shil rushed to the spot and found the entire establishment engulfed in flames.
Shil alleged that the Fire and Emergency Services department was informed immediately after the smell of burning was detected, but claimed that firefighters arrived nearly one and a half hours later. By then, the fire had already caused extensive damage.
He further stated that three separate businesses owned by three different persons were operating at the location—a tyre shop, a garage and a welding workshop.
However, Fire and Emergency Services personnel denied the allegation of a significant delay. According to them, the first fire engine reached the spot promptly after receiving the information.
Firefighters said the blaze was intense and that an active electrical line at the site created additional difficulties. When water was sprayed, sparks were reportedly generated, causing the fire to spread to some extent. Despite the complication, the fire was brought under control.
Responding to questions from journalists, a Fire and Emergency Services official said the first engine reached the location without any obstruction. The second vehicle, however, was delayed slightly due to traffic congestion on the road.
Officials said the exact number of shops and businesses affected would be confirmed after detailed discussions with the owners, as the area contains several establishments.
The cause of the fire and the total extent of the financial loss are yet to be ascertained.
