In a devastating incident, a fire suspected to be of electrical origin has swept through a section of the Corriverton market, causing substantial damage.
The Ministry of Local Government swiftly dispatched a technical team to assess the structural integrity of the facility.
The fire, believed to have started around 18:45 on Monday, originated on the southern side of the market.
Quick responses from the Guyana Fire Service, which dispatched tenders from the Corriverton, Rose Hall, and New Amsterdam fire stations, helped contain and extinguish the flames.
Upon arrival at the scene, vendors were observed evacuating their belongings to safety, with some providing statements to the media regarding the unfortunate incident.
Preliminary investigations point to the fire originating from an electric fan left running in one of the stalls.
The continuous operation of the fan reportedly caused overheating, leading to the ignition of nearby flammable materials.
Government officials, including Local Government Minister Anand Persaud and Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, along with regional authorities, were present on-site, engaging with affected vendors.
Minister Anand Persaud assured vendors that a technical team would assess the roof’s structural condition.
He emphasized the importance of swift action in restoring the roof to prevent further exposure to the elements, potentially causing water damage to other stalls.
The Minister pledged that once the fire department completed its investigation, the necessary drawings and bill of quantities would be prepared promptly to commence the restoration process.
The goal is to prevent additional damage and ensure the market’s structural integrity.
The Corriverton market fire serves as a reminder of the importance of electrical safety measures in public spaces.
Investigations into the incident will continue, shedding light on the specific circumstances that led to the fire.
The government’s commitment to the swift restoration of the affected section reflects its dedication to supporting local businesses and preserving essential community infrastructure.