A serene evening in Bihar’s Katihar shattered on February 15 as a rampant fire consumed the State Haat market at Shaheed Chowk, Kursela. Ignited in a textile shop at 7:30 PM, the blaze tore through 500 tin and thatch stalls peddling clothes, smokes, tech, veggies, and phones, turning prosperity into peril.
The fire’s drama unfolded dramatically: licks of flame soared, illuminating 5 km radii and sowing disorder on key roads. Traffic standstill ensued as panic-stricken folk secured homes. The speed stunned all—no chance to react before everything charred.
Response flaws drew ire—a puny initial fire truck fizzled out fast; heftier aid from Katihar dawdled. Hours of battle quelled it, but not before 70 million rupees in assets—and hopes—vanished. Clothiers bore the brunt, staring at empty futures.
Vendors’ sobs echoed plights: wedding funds gone, debts mounting. Five hundred clans now ponder bare kitchens. Officials like SDO, DSP Ranjan Kumar Singh, BDO Priyavada, and circle officer Anupam vowed assessments and relief.
Beyond the rubble, this blaze spotlights urgent needs for better fire safety in informal bazaars. Katihar’s traders, resilient yet ravaged, eye aid as a lifeline, urging authorities to rebuild not just shops, but faith in tomorrow.