Lucknow: A massive fire broke out on Thursday night at Barabirwa vegetable market in Krishna Nagar, engulfing over 100 shops and reducing more than 20 of them to ashes. The incident occurred around 11.30pm near a mall, triggering panic in the densely packed market area.Eyewitnesses said the flames were so intense that they were visible from nearly three kilometres away, while thick smoke spread across the locality. Several loud explosions —estimated between 10 and 12— suspected to have been caused by LPG cylinder blasts were also heard.Fire brigade teams from multiple stations rushed to the spot, and around 10 fire tenders were deployed. After hours of firefighting efforts, the blaze was brought under control. Police and local residents also assisted in evacuation and rescue operations.According to officials, the market, spread over nearly 50,000 square feet, houses hundreds of shops dealing in fruits, vegetables, grains, and other goods. A large quantity of plastic sacks, cardboard, and other combustible materials stored in the market is believed to have accelerated the spread of the fire.Shopkeepers alleged that fire tenders arrived nearly an hour after the incident was reported, allowing the fire to intensify. However, officials said teams from Krishna Nagar, Alambagh, and PGI fire stations responded and worked continuously to contain the blaze.CFO, Lucknow, Ankush Mittal said preliminary findings suggest that the fire may have been triggered by a short circuit in one of the shops. “Around 200 shops are located in the market, and 15 to 20 shops have been completely gutted. The fire has now been brought under control, and cooling operations are underway,” he said.Police cordoned off the area and ensured evacuation to prevent any casualties. No loss of life has been reported so far, though property damage worth several lakhs is feared. Further investigation is underway to ascertain the exact cause of the fire.
