Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday visited the Khidderpore market on Orphangunge Road, following a devastating fire that reportedly destroyed around 1,300 shops in the nearly 150-year-old market.
During her visit, Banerjee announced a comprehensive rehabilitation package aimed at assisting the affected traders. Her presence was met with criticism from locals who expressed frustration over the delayed response from the fire brigade.
Banerjee announced financial assistance, construction of a modern new market, and temporary relocation arrangements to ensure business continuity for the affected vendors. “Traders whose shops were completely destroyed will receive Rs 1 lakh, covering the cost of reconstruction and materials. Those who suffered partial damage will receive Rs 50,000 . These amounts will be disbursed only after relocation,” she said.
She further assured that a new market will be constructed at the affected site with “a modern, scientific and safe design, including a proper fire management system.” You will not have to spend anything. The government will build this market so that you don’t face future problems she added.
A temporary relocation site is being finalized in consultation with local authorities to ensure traders can resume their livelihoods without significant interruption. The Chief Minister also emphasized the need for a detailed investigation and assessment to determine the full extent of the damage. “We are ready to help, but we need a complete report to find out whose shops were completely or partially burnt. This will be done through a proper inquiry and site enquiry,” she added, urging patience during the survey process.
The chief minister also urged people and businessmen to prioritise safety measures.
The blaze, which began around 2:05 am, was brought under control by 6 am with the help of 20 fire tenders. However, “pocket of fires” continued to smoulder for hours. Officials suspect a short circuit triggered the fire, which quickly spread due to highly inflammable materials stored in nearby godowns.
However, widespread complaints have emerged from locals and affected traders regarding the delayed arrival of the fire brigade.“We called the fire brigade immediately, but they came nearly two hours later,” a shopkeeper claimed. “Even then, the water pressure was low and it ran out within 10 minutes.” A second fire engine arrived half an hour later, but its water also ran out quickly, they claimed.
State Fire Minister Sujit Bose visited the site early in the day but was met with angry protests. “It’s a congested area. Our people work at the risk of their lives. Our personnel had difficulty reaching the spot, but they managed to bring the fire under control,” an official said.
He also hinted at possible non-compliance with safety rules by some shop owners, adding, “Besides, many people do not follow the rules properly while running their shops. I am not blaming anyone. An incident has happened, we will see.”
The incident has also stirred strong reactions from political opposition. BJP IT Cell In charge Amit Malviya criticized Banerjee for allegedly deflecting blame onto the victims. “Instead of standing with the devastated traders, she shamelessly blamed them for the tragedy,” said Malviya.
Traders expressed their anguish and frustration, attributing the devastation to administrative failures. “We have to pay the price for the utter failure of the administration and the fire department. There are 1,300 businessmen here. Everything is gone for everyone,” lamented one businessman.
Another raised concerns about the firefighters’ apparent lack of preparedness. “The fire brigade came late… they didn’t have oil in their pumps. So they couldn’t draw water from the Ganges,” he said.