Nongpoh, Jan 07: A massive fire broke out at the district market of 9th Mile of Baridua, Ri-Bhoi District on Saturday morning. The fire burned down 17 shops including grocery shops and boutique stores.

As per official sources, the fire started at about 3:30 AM on Saturday morning. Police officials, who were on duty near the market, spotted the fire and hurried to douse it and also informed the fire department of Assam and Meghalaya.

The blazing fire was extinguished around 6 AM and was stopped from spreading to other parts of the market. Although there was no death or injury in this fire accident, 17 shops were completely gutted. The damage and loss of property from the fire has been estimated at around Rs. 30 lakhs.

The reason for the fire hasn’t been traced yet, however, police officials of Khanapara outpost are investigating the matter to ascertain the reason.