Tarun Karthick
Mumbai, 27 October 2025
A massive fire broke out in the early hours of Sunday, October 26, 2025, around 1 AM, in the old part of Rangat Bazar near the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Auditorium and Murugan Temple, completely gutting 18 commercial establishments housed in old wooden structures. The blaze, which raged for more than five hours before being brought under control at around 6:30 AM, also partially damaged three residential houses and one RCC building belonging to the Temple Committee.
Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported. However, all goods and materials stored in the affected shops were reduced to ashes, causing extensive losses to local traders.
Mr. Sushant Padha, IAS, Deputy Commissioner (North & Middle Andaman), personally visited the affected area along with the Assistant Commissioner (Middle Andaman), SDPO, and other officials to assess the situation. He interacted with the victims, inspected the damaged market, and assured all possible administrative support.
A public meeting was later convened at the site with elected PRI representatives, shopkeepers, and residents. During the meeting, Mr. Padha expressed deep sympathy for those affected and announced a series of immediate measures, including:
- A comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the fire,
- Constitution of a Damage Assessment Committee to evaluate the extent of loss, and
- Early release of compensation to affected shop owners and households.
The Revenue Department team, led by the Assistant Commissioner, along with the Police and Fire Service personnel, worked relentlessly through the night to control the blaze and prevent it from spreading to adjoining areas. The entire operation was carried out under the direct supervision of the Deputy Commissioner, who coordinated inter-departmental efforts and ensured prompt assistance to those affected.
The Administration has conveyed deep sympathy to the victims and reiterated its commitment to providing timely relief and rehabilitation.
Public participation during the crisis was also commendable. The coordinated efforts of local residents, private water tanker owners, and the excavator deployed by the National Highway authorities played a crucial role in supporting the firefighting teams and preventing the incident from escalating into a larger disaster. (Story Based on PR)
