A devastating fire at Thane’s Gaondevi market reduced over 150 shops to ashes, killing a firefighter and a security guard while leaving several injured. Traders who spent decades building their businesses now face an uncertain future, mourning not just financial losses but the destruction of their only source of livelihood. (Pics/ Anushree Gaikwad, Special Arrangements)
Updated On: 2026-05-22 11:57 AM IST
Compiled by : Anushree Gaikwad
According to police, the fire initially started in a clothing and footwear shop before spreading rapidly across the market complex. (Pic/ Anushree Gaikwad)
Thick smoke, collapsed structures and charred debris were seen across the market as firefighters battled the blaze for hours. (Pic/ Anushree Gaikwad)
More than 150 shops were gutted in the fire, leaving several traders without their only source of livelihood. (Pic/ Anushree Gaikwad)
Devastated shopkeepers returned to the market in the morning to find decades of hard work reduced to ashes. (Pics/ Anushree Gaikwad)
Following the tragedy, authorities announced Rs 10 lakh compensation each for the families of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh aid for the injured firefighters. (Pic/ Anushree Gaikwad)
Officials said all 155 affected shopkeepers would be rehabilitated at the same location by June 1. (Pic/ Anushree Gaikwad)
Two firefighters, Sujit Phaste and Sameer Jadhav, sustained injuries during the rescue and firefighting operation and are currently undergoing treatment. (Pic/ Special Arrangement)
The blaze claimed the lives of fire station officer Sagar Suryakant Shinde (42) (in photo) and TMC security guard Kalu Shankar Gadekar (55). (Pic/ Special Arrangement)
The administration also assured jobs on compassionate grounds for family members of the deceased as per government norms. (Pic/ Anushree Gaikwad)
