Fire Destroys Khidirpur Market: Over 1,000 Shops Lost

A massive fire swept through Kolkata’s historic Khidirpur Market in the early hours of June 16, 2025, leaving devastation in its wake. The blaze, which started shortly after 1 a.m., quickly engulfed the crowded market, reducing over 1,000 shops to ashes and putting the livelihoods of hundreds of families at risk.

How the Fire Started and Spread

According to local reports, the fire broke out deep in the market, where many shops were packed closely together. Khidirpur Market is known for its narrow lanes and dense construction, which made it difficult for firefighters to reach the source of the flames quickly. The market also housed several oil warehouses, which fueled the fire and made it spread even faster.

Within minutes, the flames leapt from shop to shop, burning everything in their path. By the time the fire brigade arrived, large sections of the market had already been destroyed. More than 20 fire engines were sent to the scene, but even by morning, small pockets of fire were still burning.

The Impact on Shopkeepers and the Local Community

For many shopkeepers, Khidirpur Market was more than just a place of business—it was their only source of income. The fire has left hundreds of families uncertain about their future. Some shop owners watched helplessly as their life’s work turned to ashes.

“We have lost everything,” said one local vendor, echoing the despair felt by many.

The market was famous for selling a variety of goods, from clothes and household items to food and spices. Its destruction means that not only have shopkeepers lost their businesses, but local residents have also lost a vital shopping hub.

Why Did the Fire Spread So Quickly?

Several factors contributed to the rapid spread of the fire:

Tightly packed shops: The market’s crowded layout made it easy for flames to jump from one shop to another.
Flammable materials: Many shops stored items like oil, cloth, and plastic, which burn quickly and intensely.
Narrow lanes: Firefighters struggled to bring their equipment into the market because of the narrow passages.
Irregular construction: Some shops were built without following safety rules, making the area more dangerous during emergencies.

Firefighting Efforts and Challenges

Firefighters faced many difficulties while trying to control the blaze. The market’s layout made it hard for them to reach some areas, and the intense heat forced them to work in shifts. Despite their best efforts, it took hours to bring the fire under control, and even then, small fires kept flaring up in different parts of the market.

Local people have raised concerns about the speed of the fire brigade’s response, with some saying that help arrived late. However, officials explained that the market’s location and structure made firefighting operations extremely challenging.

What Happens Next?

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Authorities have said that a full inquiry will begin once the area is safe and the cooling process is complete. In the meantime, many are asking how such a disaster could happen and what can be done to prevent it from happening again.

There are also questions about compensation and support for those who have lost their shops. As of now, there is no clear information about what kind of help the government or local authorities will provide to affected shopkeepers.

Learning from Tragedy

Fires like the one at Khidirpur Market are not new to Kolkata. Old markets with crowded shops and poor safety measures are found across the city. This tragedy highlights the urgent need for better fire safety rules, regular inspections, and proper planning in busy marketplaces.

It is also a reminder of the importance of community awareness and preparedness. Fire safety training for shopkeepers, clear emergency exits, and better access for fire engines can help reduce the risk of such disasters in the future.

Final Note

The fire at Khidirpur Market is a heartbreaking event for Kolkata. It has destroyed the dreams and livelihoods of hundreds of families and left a deep scar on the city’s commercial life. As the community comes together to support those affected, there is hope that lessons will be learned and steps will be taken to make markets safer for everyone in the future.

The story of Khidirpur Market’s fire is not just about loss—it is also about resilience, recovery, and the need for change. By working together, Kolkata can rebuild and ensure that its markets remain vibrant and safe for generations to come.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies