Amritsar: A massive fire broke out in the famous Jahazgarh market of Amritsar, Punjab. The fire spread so fast that within no time many shops and goods kept outside were engulfed by it. In this fire, goods worth lakhs of rupees kept in shops were burnt to ashes. More than half a dozen vehicles of the fire department tried to control the fire after hours of hard work. After the incident, traders raised questions on the fire fighting system of the administration.
How did the fire break out in Jahazgarh market?
A fire suddenly broke out in the famous automobile spare parts and scrap market of Amritsar. Within some time the fire took a huge form. High flames and clouds of black smoke were visible far away. Nearby shopkeepers and local people reached the spot. Before the fire brigade vehicles arrived, people tried to extinguish the fire with the help of buckets and available resources. After this the fire brigade and police administration were informed.
Why did fire engines face problems?
On receiving the information, more than half a dozen vehicles of the fire department reached the spot. However, it was difficult for fire brigade vehicles to reach inside the market due to the narrow streets and large generators parked in the pathways. Shopkeepers allege that the relief work was affected due to encroachment and keeping of junk items on the roads. The fire was burning repeatedly due to inflammable materials like tyres, foam and wood. Fire fighters had to work for hours to control the fire.
What did the MLA say after reaching the spot?
As soon as information about the incident was received, local Aam Aadmi Party MLA Dr. Jeevanjot Kaur also reached the spot. He took stock of the relief and rescue operations. According to the MLA, due to Vishwakarma Day, most of the shops in the market were closed, due to which the risk of major loss of life and property was averted. He said that as soon as information about the fire was received, vehicles were dispatched from the focal point and other fire stations.
Why are the shopkeepers angry with the administration?
After the fire incident, traders expressed their displeasure over the arrangements of the administration and the market head. Shopkeepers allege that every year there are incidents of fire in the market around Diwali, but concrete steps are not taken for safety. According to the traders, they have been demanding for a long time to permanently deploy two fire engines in the market during festivals.
Anil Kumar Tuli, owner of Tuli Tire House and other traders also raised questions on keeping generators and junk on the roads. He says that if the roads were free from encroachment, fire brigade vehicles could have reached inside on time.
Is the cause of the fire known?
At present, the actual cause of the fire has not been officially confirmed. Police and administration are investigating the matter. The damage caused to shops and goods affected by the fire is yet to be assessed. Traders have demanded from the administration to make permanent fire fighting arrangements in the market and remove encroachments from the roads.
