A devastating fire erupted in the wee hours of Sunday engulfed the major parts of the vegetable market of Battala and above one hundred shops totally gutted into ashes.

The massive fire incident broke out at about 2 AM and within seconds, the engulfment of the mysterious fire gripped hundred vegetable shops, few grocery shops along with few godowns. Immediately, firefighters rushed to the spot and after hours fighting massive flames, a total of six fire-tending engines managed to douse the fire.

 Even as impoverished and numbed vendors and shopkeepers were seen desperately trying to salvage something from the remains, nobody could say how exactly the fire had started-as a result of short circuit or for any other reason.

After four hours of efforts by firefighters and some local people, the fire was extinguished, causing a loss of crores though a final estimate is yet to be made.

Later on Monday morning, Chief Minister Prof. (Dr) Manik Saha visited Battala market in Agartala accompanied by Mayor of Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) Dipak Majumder and others officials interacted with the affected traders.

Later speaking to the Media, the Chief Minister said, the total loss is yet to be ascertained and necessary government assistance would be provided to the affected traders.

“I have received information that a massive fire engulfed a part of Battala market. Many traders have suffered losses. I have come here with the Mayor, and I have spoken with the ADM. After a complete assessment, we can determine the accurate amount of loss. There were retailers and other shops as well that were damaged," said Dr Saha.

The Chief Minister mentioned that the preliminary assessment indicated that the loss amount would be more than Rs 1.5 crore.

He also praised the Fire Fighters for their prompt response in extinguishing the fire and preventing further spread of it.

"Our government officials are also inspecting the matter and determining how we can assist them. I have also spoken with the Mayor to provide immediate help. Preliminary findings suggest that this incident occurred due to a short circuit. This is indeed very sad news. Our government will assist the affected people in every possible way," he added.