Massive fire destroys seven shops in Assam's Jonai, property worth nearly Rs 1 crore gutted

A massive fire broke out in the Simen Chapori area of Jonai in Assam's Dhemaji district on Diwali evening of November 8, destroying seven commercial establishments and causing an estimated property loss of nearly Rs 1 crore.

According to preliminary estimates, the fire completely gutted all seven business establishments, leaving their owners with substantial losses.

The fire reportedly broke out suddenly in the commercial area of Simen Chapori amid Diwali celebrations. It soon spread rapidly to neighbouring establishments, engulfing one shop after another and reducing seven commercial units to ashes.

Following reports of the incident, several fire and emergency service teams from Jonai, Silapathar and Dhemaji rushed to the spot to contain the blaze.

After more than two hours of firefighting operations, the teams eventually managed to bring the fire under control.

Meanwhile, there are suspicions that firecrackers or kolgosha (fireworks used during celebrations) may have triggered the blaze, given that the incident occurred during Diwali festivities. However, the exact cause of the fire has not yet been ascertained.

The incident has caused widespread concern in the Simen Chapori area, with affected traders facing distress after losing their business establishments in the fire.

Further details regarding the exact extent of the damage and the cause of the fire are awaited.