Assam: Massive fire guts Sohum Emporia in Guwahati
A major fire tore through Sohum Emporia on GS Road, Guwahati, early Wednesday, destroying multiple floors and SBI branches; no casualties reported.
GUWAHATI- A massive fire broke out early Wednesday at the prominent Sohum Emporia shopping complex in Christian Basti, located along Guwahati’s busy GS Road. The blaze, which reportedly started around 1:30 AM, rapidly engulfed all six floors of the commercial building housing retail stores, offices and State Bank of India (SBI) branches.
Flames and thick black smoke billowed into the night sky, visible from several kilometres away. Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple explosions, likely from gas cylinders or electrical equipment trapped inside the building. “It was terrifying. Within minutes the entire building was on fire,” said a nearby resident who watched the blaze escalate.
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More than a dozen fire tenders from Assam Fire and Emergency Services were deployed to control the inferno. Firefighting operations continued for hours with teams battling intense heat and dense smoke that initially limited access to inner sections of the structure.
As of 12 noon, officials confirmed that the fire had been largely contained, though smouldering pockets remain. Fortunately, no injuries or casualties have been reported, as the incident occurred after business hours when the complex was largely empty.
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The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Early indications suggest a possible electrical malfunction, though authorities have not formally confirmed the source.
Traffic along GS Road was severely impacted throughout the morning, with emergency vehicles occupying the stretch and crowds gathering to witness the disaster unfold.
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This marks the second major fire incident in Guwahati within a month, raising concerns over fire preparedness and compliance in commercial establishments, especially during peak festive and wedding activity.
The State Bank of India confirmed that its Sohum Emporia branches sustained significant damage, announcing a temporary suspension of services until further notice.
Local administration has urged citizens to avoid GS Road until clearance is issued. Fire control operations and damage assessment continue, with further updates expected.
