A devastating fire broke out late last night at Nurpur Market under the Kailashahar subdivision of Unakoti dstrict, leaving nine shops completely gutted. The incident has created panic among traders and residents in the market area.

According to local sources, the fire started at around 5:30 a.m. from one of the shops in the market. Within moments, the flames spread rapidly to nearby shops, causing several establishments to catch fire. Among the businesses destroyed were grocery stores, a sweet shop, a pathology lab, and a bike mechanic’s workshop. In total, nine business establishments were completely reduced to ashes.

Eyewitnesses said that local residents initially tried to control the fire on their own. However, the intensity of the flames was too strong to handle. Fire engines from the fire department later rushed to the spot and began firefighting operations. Locals alleged that a mechanical fault in the fire engine caused some delay in controlling the blaze.

Affected shop owners claimed that each shop contained goods worth approximately Rs 3–4 lakh. As many traders had stocked extra goods ahead of the upcoming Ramadan month, the sudden fire has caused severe financial losses. The total damage is estimated to be several lakh rupees.

After receiving information about the incident, local MLA Birajit Sinha, Gournagar Panchayat Samiti Vice-Chairman Badruzzaman, and other public representatives visited the site in the morning. They spoke with the affected shopkeepers and demanded immediate compensation from the administration.

DCM Mati Ranjan Debbarma also visited the site on behalf of the administration and assured the victims that support would be provided. However, with the extent of the damage being significant, many shopkeepers remain uncertain about adequate assistance and rehabilitation.

Local residents have demanded prompt government support, stating that it will be extremely difficult for the affected traders to recover without financial help. The incident has created widespread concern and tension in the area.