Katihar, 19th May 2026, Tazim Hussain: A major fire broke out near the railway station in Manihari Market of Katihar district on Tuesday, triggering panic among shopkeepers and local residents. The fire rapidly spread and engulfed a hardware shop, a book stall, and a sweet shop, causing property damage estimated to be worth several lakhs of rupees.
The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.
According to eyewitnesses, thick smoke and flames suddenly started emerging from one of the shops, following which nearby shopkeepers and local residents immediately began efforts to control the blaze. On receiving information, the fire brigade team rushed to the spot and, with the support of local people, managed to bring the fire under control before it could spread further.
Due to the timely response of the fire department and residents, several nearby shops were saved from being affected, averting a major tragedy in the densely populated market area.
As a precautionary measure, electricity supply in the area was temporarily suspended after the incident, creating panic in the market locality. Power supply was later restored after the situation was brought under control.
Speaking on the incident, Deputy Chief Councillor of Nagar Panchayat, Shubham Poddar, said that immediately after receiving information about the fire, local representatives and residents reached the spot and joined efforts to douse the flames.
“We immediately informed the fire department, after which the fire brigade team arrived and successfully controlled the fire. The administration should conduct a proper inquiry into the incident and ensure adequate compensation for the affected shopkeepers,” he said.
Social worker Karan Manas also praised the prompt response of local residents and the fire brigade.
“The alertness of local people and the swift action of the fire department prevented a much bigger disaster. Had the fire not been controlled in time, the entire market area could have been severely affected. The administration should provide financial assistance to the affected traders at the earliest,” he said.
Meanwhile, the administration has initiated an inquiry to determine the cause of the fire. Local residents appreciated the coordinated efforts of the fire brigade personnel and citizens in preventing the incident from escalating further.
