Cuttack, June 1: A major fire broke out at the fish market near Press Chhak in Cuttack late Sunday night, reducing the entire market to ashes and causing extensive damage to property worth over ₹50 lakh. The fire also spread to the nearby building housing a branch of Bank of India, raising concerns about further losses.

According to reports, the fire erupted between 1-2am and quickly engulfed the fish market and adjoining storage facilities. The presence of a paint warehouse in a nearby building reportedly intensified the blaze, making firefighting operations extremely challenging.

More than ten fire tenders were pressed into service to control the flames. A robotic firefighting vehicle brought from Bhubaneswar was also deployed to assist in the operation. Firefighters equipped with oxygen masks are struggling to enter smoke-filled sections of the building due to poor visibility and intense heat.

Traders claimed that cash collections from Sunday’s business, estimated at ₹50–60 lakh, were stored in the market as banks remained closed. Much of the cash, along with furniture, equipment, and deep freezers, is believed to have been destroyed in the fire. Around 17 fish traders have reportedly suffered heavy losses, with many claiming their livelihoods have been devastated.

The fire also spread to the upper floor where the bank branch is located, and damage to furniture and office infrastructure is feared. Authorities are assessing the extent of the losses.

With several commercial buildings located close to the market, officials remain on alert to prevent the fire from spreading further. The exact cause of the blaze is yet to be ascertained, and an investigation is expected once the situation is fully brought under control.