A devastating fire that broke out at Shiv Shakti Textile Market in Surat has been successfully brought under control after an intense 44-hour-long operation. 
The Surat fire brigade, with assistance from multiple industrial fire squads, worked relentlessly to contain the massive blaze that caused losses to the tune of crores.
The Operation
The fire, reported at 6 am on February 26, quickly spread across the multi-story textile market, engulfing numerous shops. Efforts to douse the flames included:
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Deployment of over 35 fire engines from the Surat fire brigade</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Assistance from Reliance, Kribhco, ONGC, Hazira, and other industrial fire teams</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Use of three hydraulic platforms for continuous water spraying over 44 hours</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Over 150 fire personnel and officers actively engaged in the operation</li>
</ul>
Extent of Damage
The inferno resulted in massive financial losses, with many shops completely gutted. Officials reported that illegal structures and tin sheds on the top floor contributed to the fire&rsquo;s intensity, making containment more difficult. Several flare-ups on different floors also hampered the firefighting operation. 
Structural Concerns 
Authorities have initiated cooling operations to prevent any further flare-ups. Additionally, a structural stability report will be conducted to assess the safety of the building by Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) engineers. If deemed unsafe, demolition orders may be issued for the market.
The fire was finally brought under control at 6 am on Friday, bringing relief to fire officials and the district administration after nearly two days of relentless firefighting efforts. 
Huge Losses 
Textile traders with shops in the market have suffered huge losses due to the fire. Stock kept in shops has been burnt to a crisp, putting severe financial strain on traders who had been looking to sell it. A few traders reported losing their stock, account books, and even insurance papers. 
While other textile markets have expressed sympathy for the traders who have lost everything, even opening their markets to them for business. However, the future looks bleak for these traders.

A firefighter standing inside a shop gutted in the blaze

Traders suffer huge losses, structural integrity of building compromised

Surat Textile Market Fire Doused after 44 Hours

Traders suffer huge losses, structural integrity of building compromised

February 28, 2025 | 13:40 IST