Guwahati, Jan 17: A major fire broke out late on the night of January 16 at a wholesale medicine shop in Dhubri, triggering panic in the busy market area and causing losses estimated at more than Rs 10 lakh, officials said.
According to sources, the fire originated inside the wholesale medicine store while it was closed for the night. Residents living nearby noticed thick smoke and flames rising from the premises and immediately informed the fire and emergency services.
On receiving the alert, two fire tenders rushed to the spot and launched firefighting operations. After sustained efforts, the blaze was brought under control, preventing it from spreading to adjacent shops and residential buildings in the congested locality.
Despite the timely response, the fire caused extensive damage, destroying a large stock of medicines and other valuables stored inside the shop. Preliminary assessments have pegged the financial loss at over Rs 10 lakh.
Local residents and shopkeepers have suspected that a short circuit might have triggered the fire, though officials said the exact cause is yet to be ascertained. An investigation has been initiated to determine the origin of the blaze.
No injuries or casualties were reported in the incident.
