Jodhpur's Bhadwasiya Fruit Market was engulfed. In a massive fire on Diwali night, leading to widespread panic and chaos. The inferno was so intense that thick plumes of smoke were visible from as far as 5 kilometers away, turning the festive night into a scene of distress for traders and residents. The fire reportedly started late at night in fruit crates placed in front of the Vishandas Thawardas firm within the Bhadwasiya market. Initial investigations suggest that a stray spark from a firecracker might have triggered the blaze. Within a short span, the fire escalated rapidly, spreading vigorously throughout the fruit market.
Herculean Efforts by Firefighters
Upon receiving the alarm, fire services promptly dispatched half a dozen fire tenders to the scene. Firefighters faced a daunting challenge in containing the raging inferno. After hours of relentless effort and struggle, the fire was finally brought under control by Wednesday morning. The incident caused significant financial losses to many traders, although thankfully, no casualties were reported.
Panic Among Traders and Other Incidents
News of the fire sent shockwaves through the trading community, with many rushing to the market to try and salvage their shops and goods. Besides the fruit market, Jodhpur witnessed other fire incidents on Diwali night. Fires also broke out at Mahalakshmi Dairy near Air Force Officers Mess intersection, Chopasni Housing Board Sector 21, and outside the Chauhabo Police Station. Firefighters successfully doused these blazes as well, while while these incidents caused property damage worth lakhs of rupees, no human lives were lost.