Ganjam, Aug. 6 (UDN): A major fire broke out at Keshpur market in Odisha’s Ganjam district early Thursday morning, reducing a wholesale grocery shop and four adjoining warehouses to ashes and causing property damage worth several lakh rupees.

The incident occurred in the bustling market area under the jurisdiction of Khallikote police station. According to preliminary reports, the fire erupted at around 4 a.m. in a wholesale grocery outlet owned by local trader Rajendra Patra before rapidly spreading to nearby warehouses stocked with goods.

Thick plumes of smoke engulfed the market as flames consumed the establishments, prompting panic among traders and local residents. Fire Services personnel rushed to the spot after receiving information and launched an intensive firefighting operation. After several hours of efforts, the blaze was brought under control, preventing it from spreading further to other shops in the market.

Although no casualties were reported, the fire destroyed large quantities of grocery items and stored merchandise, with traders estimating the losses to be worth several lakh rupees.

The incident has also sparked suspicion among local business owners. Rajendra Patra claimed this was the second fire involving his business premises within a week, alleging that his shop had also caught fire on August 1. He suspected that unidentified miscreants deliberately set the latest blaze by using petrol, possibly due to business rivalry.

Based on the trader’s complaint, police have initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire. Officials said all angles, including the possibility of deliberate arson, are being examined, and further action will be taken based on the findings.

Authorities have urged traders to remain vigilant while the investigation continues into the back-to-back fire incidents reported in the market.