Fire in built environment - Asia - India

A massive fire swept through a major commercial complex in Thaliparamba, Kannur, on Wednesday evening, destroying over 50 establishments and causing estimated losses running to several crores.<br />Officials said no casualties were reported, though the property damage is extensive.<br />The blaze, which began around 4:55 p.m., was brought under control after more than three and a half hours of firefighting.<br />The fire reportedly started in a toy store named "Mitreds" located in the KV Complex, close to the municipal bus stand on the national highway.<br />Within minutes, the flames spread to adjoining shops, including textile stores, mobile outlets, and a supermarket.<br />The KV Complex is one of Thaliparamba's busiest commercial hubs, housing several shops, offices and jewellery outlets.<br />Local residents alleged a delayed response from the fire force, claiming it took more than 30 minutes for the first unit to reach the spot.<br />By then, the fire had already spread through a large part of the complex.<br />Twelve fire units from Kannur, Payyannur, Thalassery, Koothuparamba, Mattannur, Iritty and neighbouring districts were eventually deployed to contain the blaze.<br />More than 30 stores, including the two-storey Shalimar Supermarket, were completely destroyed.<br />Gas cylinders inside some shops exploded, accelerating the spread of the fire.<br />Firefighters struggled to prevent the blaze from reaching the upper floors of Jayafashion Jewellery, a prominent local outlet.<br />The intense heat shattered glass panes on buildings across the road.<br />Traffic on the national highway was halted and later diverted through Pazhayangadi.<br />Fire officials suspect a short circuit triggered the blaze. The incident has raised serious questions about emergency preparedness and fire safety measures in the town's commercial hubs. An investigation is underway.