Firefighter Among Two Killed in Massive Thane Vegetable Market Fire; Rs 10 Lakh Ex-Gratia Announced

A massive fire at the Gaondevi public vegetable market complex near Thane railway station in Maharashtra claimed the lives of two people, including a firefighter and a security guard, while several others sustained injuries.

The blaze reportedly broke out in the early hours of Thursday, sending huge flames and thick smoke across the market area and triggering panic among nearby residents and vendors.

According to officials, emergency teams rushed to the spot and launched extensive firefighting operations to control the blaze.

During the rescue and firefighting efforts, a firefighter and a security guard lost their lives, while two other firefighters suffered injuries while battling the flames.

Authorities are continuing cooling operations and assessing the extent of damage caused to shops and structures inside the market complex.

Following the incident, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed grief over the deaths and announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs10 lakh each for the families of the deceased.

Officials stated that the injured are receiving treatment and assistance from the administration.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire. The incident has once again raised concerns regarding fire safety measures and emergency preparedness in crowded commercial and market areas.