Karnal Cloth Showroom Gutted in Fire After Multiple Blasts, Losses Worth Lakhs Reported
Karnal (Haryana), July 7, 2025:
Panic gripped the busy Budhakheda Chowk area in Karnal on Sunday night after a newly opened clothing showroom caught fire, followed by a series of loud explosions. The incident took place at ‘The Zari’ showroom, which was inaugurated merely 20 days ago. The fire not only reduced goods worth lakhs to ashes but also sent shockwaves across the neighborhood due to the intensity of the blasts.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing flames erupt from the building around 11:30 PM, followed by multiple explosions that rattled nearby houses. The blaze was so fierce that it melted the glass doors of the showroom and emitted thick plumes of black smoke, visible from several kilometers away.
🔴 New Business, Devastating Loss
According to locals, the showroom had just commenced operations, and the owners had stocked fresh inventory worth lakhs of rupees in anticipation of a booming festive season. The unexpected fire has not only caused financial devastation but also dealt a severe psychological blow to the business owner.
Residents and eyewitnesses like Sonu, Pawan, and Mukesh said the fire spread rapidly, consuming expensive clothing, décor, and equipment in minutes. “It was heartbreaking to see everything burn down. The owner had worked hard to set this up, and now everything is gone,” said one onlooker.
🔴 Firefighting Operation: Smoke Hampered Rescue Efforts
As soon as the fire was reported, teams from the Karnal Police and Fire Brigade rushed to the site. Multiple fire engines were deployed, and firefighters began battling the flames immediately. However, dense smoke inside the building posed serious challenges, making it difficult for the rescue teams to enter and locate the fire’s origin.
It took several hours of intense efforts before the fire was finally brought under control in the early hours of Monday. Fortunately, there were no casualties, as the incident occurred late at night when the showroom was closed.
🔴 Blast-like Sounds Deepen Mystery
One of the most disturbing elements of the incident was the series of loud blasts that occurred as the fire progressed. Residents initially thought it was a gas cylinder explosion or possibly a deliberate act of sabotage. However, officials believe these were possibly caused by sealed containers, spray cans, or electrical equipment exposed to high heat.
Nonetheless, the repeated explosions have raised concerns about fire safety regulations and inflammable materials stored in commercial buildings. Some locals have even demanded a thorough audit of nearby shops and businesses to prevent similar tragedies.
🔴 Police Investigation Underway, Cause Not Yet Confirmed
Sub-Inspector Vinod Kumar, who was among the first to reach the scene, stated, “The showroom is named ‘The Zari’. We received information around midnight that fire had broken out. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Prima facie, it appears to be a case of short circuit, but we are keeping all possibilities open.”
Police are examining CCTV footage, and forensic teams may also be called in to collect samples and identify accelerants, if any. Statements from shop owners, employees, and nearby establishments are being recorded to piece together the sequence of events.
🔴 Community in Shock, Calls for Compensation
Local shopkeepers and community leaders visited the site on Monday morning and offered support to the affected businessman. “This is a devastating loss, especially since the showroom was a new venture. We request district authorities to offer financial aid or insurance assistance to the owner,” said a member of the local traders’ association.
The incident has reignited debates around the lack of fire preparedness in small business hubs and market areas. Despite multiple awareness drives, many shop owners continue to operate without basic fire extinguishers, alarms, or circuit breakers.
🔴 Past Incidents Raise Alarm Bells
This is not the first time Karnal has witnessed a commercial fire. In the past year, at least three similar fire incidents were reported in the city, including a fire in a garment warehouse in Sector-7 and an electronics store blaze near Namaste Chowk. These incidents underline the urgency of a city-wide fire safety inspection.
🔴 Final Word: Safety Must Come First
While the loss in this particular case is primarily financial, the risk to human lives in such densely populated areas cannot be overstated. Authorities must ensure strict implementation of fire safety norms, especially in commercial establishments.
For now, the business owner of “The Zari” showroom must grapple with the aftermath of a catastrophic start. Whether it was a short circuit, human negligence, or something more sinister, the truth will unfold only after a detailed investigation.
