PORT BLAIR: In a tragic incident, Rangat Market in Middle Andaman fell victim to a massive fire in the early hours of Tuesday, leaving nearly 40-50 shops in ruins, according to officials.

The blaze was first reported by authorities in Port Blair, highlighting the severity of the situation. The fire, which erupted in the historic market, quickly consumed a significant portion of the wooden structures, making it challenging for the firefighters to control the spread.

Late at night, around 1:15 am, the police received a distress call about the raging fire. Rapid response teams, including five fire tenders, were sent to the spott. Despite their efforts, the inferno rapidly engulfed the market, fueled by the combustible nature of the wooden infrastructure.

Rahul Nair, the Sub-divisional Police Officer of Rangat, expressed gratitude to the timely cooperation of the shopkeepers and emergency services, preventing any reported casualties. The quick action and presence of mind exhibited by those involved played a crucial role in minimizing the potential harm.

The Rangat Market, a local landmark with over 70 years of history, now stands as a charred reminder of the devastating incident. Once the flames were extinguished, shopkeepers salvaged whatever little they could from the remnants of their businesses. Fortunately, some belongings were only partially damaged in the blaze.

The loss of the Rangat Market is not only a blow to the local economy but also a poignant moment for Middle Andaman, as a significant piece of its cultural and commercial heritage has been reduced to ashes. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, and efforts are underway to provide support to the affected shopkeepers as they attempt to rebuild their lives.

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