GUWAHATI, Assam – A devastating fire swept through the popular Sohum Emporia shopping complex in Guwahati’s Christian Basti during the early hours of Wednesday morning, sparking widespread panic and inflicting severe damage to the multi-story structure.
The massive blaze, which reportedly ignited around 2 am, spread rapidly through the building’s various sections. Nearby residents were alerted by the sight of towering flames and thick clouds of smoke filling the pre-dawn sky, prompting an immediate rush outdoors and distress calls to the fire department.
Firefighting teams from multiple stations were immediately dispatched to the scene. According to fire officials, nearly six fire tenders were deployed to combat the inferno. The crews engaged in an arduous, non-stop effort for close to five hours before the flames were successfully brought under control.
Even after subduing the main fire, teams remained on site for continuous cooling operations to prevent any chance of a dangerous flare-up. The sheer scale of the incident was described as “massive” by officials, requiring extraordinary measures to prevent the blaze from spreading to adjacent buildings in the densely packed commercial area.
Crucially, authorities have confirmed that there are no immediate reports of casualties or injuries related to the incident.
However, the building has sustained significant damage, including to the State Bank of India branch housed within the complex. The cause of the fire remains officially undetermined, and a detailed investigation has been initiated.
Officials will now conduct a thorough assessment to determine the extent of the immense loss suffered and to formulate required safety measures before the premises can be deemed safe for re-entry.
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