Fire Ravages Kolkata Market, Destroying 11 Tibetan Shops

A devastating fire in Kolkata has gutted 11 shops in a Tibetan winter sweater market, threatening the livelihoods of families dependent on this seasonal trade. The blaze, which reportedly originated from a warming fire in an adjacent bamboo market, destroyed over 30 local shops before spreading to the Tibetan section on January 8. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, and firefighters managed to save 19 other Tibetan stalls. Sonam Tobgyal, president of the traders’ association, noted that while police have cordoned off the area for investigation, the financial loss is expected to be severe for retailers relying on credit-based merchandise.