Fire Breaks Out at OB Shopping Mall in Shillong’s Police Bazar, Authorities Respond Swiftly

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On the morning of October 13, 2024, a fire broke out at OB Shopping Mall, a popular destination in Shillong’s bustling Police Bazar area. The fire is believed to have started between 9 and 10 AM in a hotel situated on the upper floors of the mall. While the exact cause is still under investigation, early reports suggest that the blaze may have been sparked by an electrical short circuit.

Plumes of thick smoke could be seen rising from the building, creating panic among pedestrians and shoppers in the area. Videos of the scene quickly circulated online, showing the extent of the smoke and raising concerns about the safety of those inside. Thankfully, the fire was swiftly contained, and no injuries or significant damage to the mall were reported.

Firefighters' Rapid Response Averts Major Damage

Shillong’s fire and emergency services were quick to respond, arriving at the scene within minutes of being alerted. Superintendent of Police (Fire & Emergency Services) Darwin M. Sangma confirmed that the fire was brought under control promptly. “It was a minor fire, and our team was able to contain it before it escalated,” Sangma said, reassuring the public that there was no risk of the fire spreading to nearby buildings.

The firefighting team’s swift action prevented what could have been a much more serious situation. While the sight of smoke rising from one of Shillong’s most popular shopping centers caused panic, their efforts ensured the safety of the public and the surrounding area.

Temporary Disruption in Police Bazar

The fire caused a brief disruption in Shillong’s commercial hub, Police Bazar, which is known for its dense concentration of shops, hotels, and restaurants. As the fire was being dealt with, the mall was evacuated and surrounding roads were cordoned off to allow emergency personnel to work. This led to minor traffic disruptions in the area.

Local business owners expressed relief that the situation was handled quickly, allowing the marketplace to return to normal within a few hours. The swift containment of the fire also ensured that neighboring businesses and properties remained unaffected.

Ongoing Investigation and Safety Measures

Although the fire was quickly brought under control, an investigation is still underway to determine the exact cause. Authorities suspect a short circuit in the hotel above the mall might have sparked the blaze, but further inspections are being conducted to confirm this.

This incident has highlighted the importance of fire safety, especially in large commercial complexes like OB Shopping Mall. Shillong’s municipal authorities are urging regular safety audits and maintenance checks to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Business owners and residents have also voiced concerns about fire safety protocols, pushing for stricter regulations in high-traffic areas like Police Bazar.

Mall Set to Reopen Soon

Despite the disruption, OB Shopping Mall is expected to reopen soon, with minimal damage reported. As one of Shillong’s main shopping destinations, the mall plays a crucial role in the city’s economy, and its quick recovery is a testament to the resilience of the local business community.

The swift response of Shillong’s emergency services has not only safeguarded the mall and its visitors but also maintained the city’s vibrant commercial spirit. Shillong Info will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available. For now, the timely intervention of local authorities has averted a potentially serious disaster.