Chandigarh: Sector 20-C Garment Showroom Destroyed in Massive Fire

Chandigarh : A massive fire broke out at the Bimla Traders ready-made garments showroom in Sector 20-C, Chandigarh late Monday night, reducing goods worth nearly ₹1.5 crore to ashes. The blaze started around 10 pm and spread quickly across all three floors of the building due to highly flammable fabric stored inside.

Firefighting Operation

The fire was finally brought under control after an extensive 19-hour firefighting operation involving 38 fire tenders. Officers reported that the shutters of the showroom were locked with heavy iron grills, and a JCB machine was used to gain entry. The staircase to the upper floors was blocked with stock, making it difficult for firefighters to climb. Thick smoke engulfed the building, creating a high risk of suffocation.

During the operation, firefighter Mohan from Industrial Area, Phase-1 station, sustained serious injuries when a glass sheet fell on his hand. He was rushed to GMCH-32, where he received multiple stitches.

Possible Cause

Preliminary reports suggest the fire may have been triggered by a short circuit, though police are reviewing CCTV footage to confirm the exact cause.

Current Status

Five fire tenders from Sector-32, Industrial Area, Ram Darbar, and Sector-17 stations were deployed. The fire was fully under control by Tuesday evening at 7 pm. Firefighters continued inspecting the building to ensure no hidden embers remained, as the extensive stock posed a risk of reignition.