A devastating fire erupted at Bansan Wala Bazaar in the Rambagh area of Amritsar on Thursday evening, resulting in the tragic death of a specially abled shopkeeper and causing extensive damage to numerous shops. The market, renowned for the manufacture and sale of bamboo ladders and other bamboo products, contains highly combustible materials, which allowed the flames to spread rapidly to adjacent establishments.
Within minutes, towering flames reaching several feet high engulfed the area, triggering widespread panic among shopkeepers and local residents. Thick, black smoke billowing from the blaze was visible from a considerable distance, drawing attention to the severity of the incident.
According to reports, a specially abled shopkeeper who owned a bamboo products shop in the market was tragically burnt alive. He was unable to escape in time and became trapped in the rapidly spreading flames. The intensity of the blaze created chaos among nearby traders and residents, who rushed to safety.
Upon receiving information about the fire, multiple fire brigade vehicles were dispatched to the scene. Firefighters launched immediate efforts to bring the inferno under control, working diligently to prevent further spread. Teams from concerned departments also arrived at the site to assist in the operations. The exact cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and investigations are ongoing.
Heavy financial losses are feared, as large quantities of goods stored in the market were destroyed in the fire. Locals reported that approximately 20 to 25 shops in the market were completely gutted, leaving many traders facing significant economic hardship.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the dangers posed by fires in markets with highly flammable materials. Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough inquiry to ascertain the cause and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
