Patna: Six shops were destroyed in a major fire that broke out late Friday night near Badi Devi Sthan in Sadar Bazaar under the Danapur police station area of Patna district. While property worth thousands of rupees was lost, no casualties were reported.
Five fire tenders were deployed to the scene after the fire department received an alert. Officials said the blaze was brought under control after several hours of firefighting.
Police Arrest Suspect in Alleged Arson Case
Police have arrested a man identified as Lalu on charges of allegedly setting the fire. He is being questioned as part of the investigation.
According to local residents, an argument had taken place on Friday afternoon between two shopkeepers, Dilip and Lalu. Witnesses alleged that Lalu threatened to set the shop on fire during the dispute.
Police said preliminary findings indicate the fire may have been deliberately started, but the exact cause will be confirmed only after the investigation is completed.
Six Shops Reduced to Ashes
The fire spread rapidly after it broke out, engulfing six neighbouring shops within a short period.
Among the damaged establishments were Dilip’s garlic shop, Sunil Kumar’s onion shop, Raju’s chilli shop and Manu’s snack shop. Local residents said thick smoke and flames quickly spread across the market area, making it difficult to control the blaze in its initial stages.
Eyewitnesses Describe Rapid Spread of Fire
Residents said they noticed smoke rising from the shops at around 12:15 am. Within minutes, the fire intensified and spread across adjoining shops.
People at the scene attempted to extinguish the flames before firefighters arrived, but were unable to contain the blaze because of its intensity. The fire department was then informed immediately.
Fire Department Investigating Cause
Assistant Fire Officer Shashikant Sharma said five fire tenders were dispatched as soon as the department received information about the incident.
He said the fire was brought under control after considerable effort and that the cause of the blaze is being investigated. A detailed report is expected after the inquiry is completed.
Investigation Continues
Police and the fire department are conducting separate investigations into the incident.
Officials said preliminary evidence points towards suspected arson, but stressed that the final conclusion will depend on the findings of the ongoing inquiry. The local administration has assured affected shopkeepers that assistance will be provided in accordance with applicable rules.
