Massive fire devastates Sanfehaat Bazaar in Achham, several shops destroyed

KATHMANDU: A massive fire broke out early Saturday morning at the bustling Saffehaat Bazaar, the main commercial hub of Achham district, causing extensive property damage.

The fire reportedly started around 3:30 AM from the Suvachha Hotel, located in Sanfebagar Municipality-3, and quickly engulfed surrounding shops.

Within a short span of time, the blaze spread to several neighboring businesses, including grocery stores, clothing outlets, mobile shops, and fruit vendors.

According to local business owners, the fire spread so rapidly that there was little time to react or attempt containment. “The flames surged uncontrollably within minutes,” one eyewitness said, noting the sheer intensity of the blaze.

District Police Office Achham’s Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ishwari Prasad Bhandari stated that an electrical short circuit is suspected to be the initial cause, though a detailed investigation is ongoing. “The exact cause is yet to be confirmed. We are still collecting information regarding the extent of the damage,” DSP Bhandari added.

Ten shops have been completely destroyed, resulting in significant financial losses for local entrepreneurs.

Emergency services, with support from locals, eventually brought the fire under control, but not before it caused severe damage.

Authorities continue to assess the full scope of the destruction as affected shopkeepers begin the daunting task of recovery.