Solan
A massive fire broke out late Sunday night at around 2:30 a.m. in Arki Market, located in Solan district. The tragic incident claimed the life of an eight-year-old girl, who was burnt alive, while 7 to 8 people are still reported missing, including two women, two men, and four children.
According to initial reports, the fire originated in a residential house and within minutes spread to nearby shops and adjoining houses. Soon, the entire market area was engulfed in thick smoke and flames. The intensity of the fire was such that more than six houses were completely reduced to ashes.
The situation worsened after several LPG cylinders exploded, causing the fire to spread rapidly and making firefighting operations extremely challenging. Panic-stricken residents rushed out of their homes to save their lives.
Upon receiving information, teams from the fire department, police administration, and local residents rushed to the spot. After several hours of strenuous efforts, the fire was finally brought under control, but by then a large portion of the market had been destroyed.
Local MLA Sanjay Awasthi visited the site and reviewed the situation. He stated that the exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained and that a search operation is ongoing to trace the missing persons.
