A devastating fire broke out at Paradip’s Badapadia vegetable market around 2 a.m., reducing more than 50 shops to ashes. The blaze destroyed cash, vegetables, and computers used for daily transactions.
The fire spread quickly through the temporary bamboo and plastic sheet structures. Within minutes, the flames engulfed the entire market, leaving traders helpless as their livelihoods turned to rubble.
Five fire tenders rushed to the spot and battled the flames for several hours. Firefighters managed to bring the situation under control, but the damage was already extensive.
Authorities suspect mosquito coils or a possible short circuit as the cause of the fire. Investigations are underway to confirm the source.
The shops operated on temporary platforms provided by Paradip Port authorities. Traders had been running businesses in makeshift bamboo and tarpaulin structures for years. Despite repeated demands for a permanent vending zone, no proper facility has been constructed.
Local vendors expressed frustration, stating that the absence of a permanent market zone continues to expose them to such disasters.
