A massive fire broke out in ward 7 of Barhathwa Municipality, Sarlahi, on Friday night.

According to the Barhathwa Area Police Office, the fire started in three shops located in the house of local resident Kisun Das. The blaze destroyed a wholesale grocery store, a potato store, and a tailoring shop.

Police estimate that the fire caused losses of around Rs30 million. The fire, which began at approximately 11:30pm, was brought under control only by 2am with assistance from local residents, security personnel, and a fire engine from Hariwan Municipality.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.