KUCHING, Dec 5 – A devastating fire this afternoon has severely ravaged three shophouses along Jalan Padungan, leaving significant damage and losses in its wake.
The Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) from Padungan Station, assisted by the Tabuan Jaya Station, received an emergency call at 4.55 pm. Firefighters swiftly deployed to the scene, battling the blaze with utmost urgency.
Among the affected properties, a grocery store bore the brunt of the fire, with approximately 80 per cent of its three-story structure destroyed. Next door, a motorcycle shop suffered extensive damage, particularly on its second and third floors. A nearby convenience store sustained 40 per cent damage, mainly impacting its first and third floors.
Firefighters worked tirelessly and successfully contained the fire by nearly 6 pm, preventing it from spreading to adjacent buildings and causing further destruction.
Operations are ongoing to ensure the site is fully secured and free of any remaining ignition sources. Bomba officers are also expected to conduct investigations to determine the cause of the fire.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky and flames engulfing the affected buildings rapidly. Residents and shopkeepers in the vicinity were seen evacuating and attempting to salvage valuables before emergency teams arrived.
While no casualties have been reported, the financial losses for the businesses involved are expected to be substantial. Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution and adhere to fire safety measures, especially during the current dry spell.