A devastating fire broke out in the Bochaahi area of Mathurapur in Malda’s Manikchak block, triggering widespread panic in the densely populated locality. The blaze, which involved stored plastic materials, spread rapidly and engulfed the area in thick black smoke, creating fear among residents living nearby.

According to locals, a large quantity of plastic had been stored at the site, which caused the fire to intensify quickly. In an attempt to prevent the flames from spreading further, a resident, Shyamapad Roy, began removing plastic materials from the area. Soon, others joined in, helping to clear the inflammable items.

With several houses located close to the site and no immediate access to motorised firefighting equipment, residents used buckets of water to douse the flames. Their collective effort helped bring the situation under control.

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However, locals alleged that despite informing the fire department, the fire brigade did not arrive promptly. By the time help arrived, residents had already managed to extinguish the fire.

The cause of the fire remains unclear. It is yet to be determined whether the incident was accidental or the result of deliberate action.