Surat, Gujarat — December 10–11, 2025
A major blaze erupted at the multi-storey Raj Textile Market in Surat’s Parvat Patia area on Wednesday morning, triggering a large-scale emergency response and intense firefighting operations that lasted for hours. English Bombay Samachar
Fire Breaks Out in Multiple Floors
The fire was first reported early on Wednesday around 7:14 AM, with flames visibly spreading across the third, fifth, and ninth floors of the busy textile complex. English Bombay Samachar
Fire brigade units responded immediately, deploying more than 20 fire tenders and fire personnel to the scene. Despite intense efforts to control the blaze, the fire reignited on these vulnerable floors several times, complicating containment efforts. English Bombay Samachar
Cause and Spread of Fire
Initial investigations by fire officials suggest a wiring-related issue might have triggered the blaze, although the exact cause is still under review and will only be confirmed after a thorough inquiry. English Bombay Samachar
Rapid smoke and fire spread was likely aggravated by the 大量 of flammable materials stored within the market, including textiles, garments, and other fabrics—a common challenge in markets of this type. The Times of India
Firefighting Response and Challenges
Large-Scale Emergency Mobilization
Surat Fire and Emergency Services (SFES) reacted swiftly:
- Around 20–22 fire engines were mobilized from various nearby stations. The Times of India
- Over 100 firefighters and officers took part in operations. ChiniMandi
- Firefighters donned breathing apparatus due to thick smoke inside the building. ChiniMandi
These efforts were crucial, especially considering the dense smoke and toxic fumes filling the structure. ChiniMandi
Repeated Fire Flare-Ups
As cooling operations were underway on the lower and mid-levels, the blaze flared up again on the identified floors, forcing the fire brigade to renew efforts. English Bombay Samachar
Fire officials worked methodically to suppress hotspots, but areas with heavy storage of goods—especially textiles—remained difficult to fully access and cool down. ABP Live
No Reported Casualties So Far
Despite the scale of the blaze and structural risks:
- No civilian casualties have been confirmed so far. English Bombay Samachar
- Firefighters did face heat stress and thick smoke, but injuries have been described as minor, and affected personnel are reported to be stable. The Times of India
This good fortune is partly attributed to the timing of the fire, which occurred before market opening hours when the building was largely empty. ABP Live
Impact on Businesses and Market Structure
Preliminary assessments estimate that 20+ shops and storage areas suffered damage due to flames and smoke. ABP Live
With the market housing hundreds of textile shops and warehouses, the scale of economic losses could be significant—especially for small traders reliant on those goods. headlinesindia.mapsofindia.com
Many shopkeepers quickly evacuated goods they could, but bulk stored material was too exposed to fire and smoke damage. headlinesindia.mapsofindia.com
Traffic and Crowd Management Measures
Local police teams established barricades and traffic controls around the area to ensure public safety and facilitate smooth movement of emergency vehicles. English Bombay Samachar
Authorities also urged residents and nearby workers to cooperate with ongoing firefighting efforts and steer clear of the active site. English Bombay Samachar
Next Steps and Safety Review
Following the fire:
- The building is likely to be sealed temporarily for safety inspections and structural assessments. The Times of India
- Authorities are expected to launch a detailed investigation to confirm the fire’s origin and whether any preventive lapses contributed to its spread.
- Fire safety compliance protocols in similar markets across the city may be reviewed as a preventive measure.
Conclusion
The massive fire at Raj Textile Market in Surat was a grave incident with widespread implications for traders and the local economy. Prompt and determined action by the fire department ensured that no lives were lost and the fire was ultimately contained, despite recurring flames on the third, fifth, and ninth floors. ABP Live
The event underscores the importance of strict fire safety measures, regular inspections, and preparedness in commercial buildings—especially where flammable materials are stored in large quantities.
FAQs
1. What triggered the fire at Raj Textile Market?
Preliminary reports suggest a wiring-related issue, but a complete official investigation is needed to determine the exact cause. English Bombay Samachar
2. Are there any casualties reported?
As of the latest reports, no civilian casualties have been confirmed, and injured firefighters are stable. The Times of India
3. Which floors caught fire in the Raj Textile Market blaze?
The fire was reported on the third, fifth, and ninth floors of the multi-storey market. English Bombay Samachar
4. How many fire tenders responded to the incident?
Over 20 to 22 fire engines and more than 100 firefighters were deployed to control the blaze. ChiniMandi
5. What is being done to prevent future fires in markets like this?
Authorities plan detailed analysis and may enhance fire safety inspections, enforcement of compliance standards, and awareness among traders. Ongoing efforts also include structural safety checks before reopening.
