Massive Fire Engulfs 10-Storey Mall in Itahari; Rescue Operations Underway

A massive fire broke out at The Center Plaza, a prominent 10-storey shopping mall located at the main square of Itahari city, triggering urgent rescue operations.

The fire, which reportedly started on the fifth floor around 9:30 a.m., trapped several people inside the building. The sound of exploding gas cylinders added to the chaos as rescue teams rushed to save those trapped.

Personnel from the Nepali Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police, along with locals, are actively engaged in rescue efforts. Nearly 300 personnel and 12 fire engines from various local governments are working tirelessly to bring the fire under control.

A helicopter from the Nepali Army was dispatched by the Ministry of Home Affairs to aid in the rescue operations. Eleven individuals — three women and eight men — have been successfully rescued from the building. Authorities are using ropes to help evacuate people from the upper floors.

Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) Rajan Adhikari, Chief of the Koshi Province Police, confirmed that efforts are ongoing to control the blaze and ensure everyone’s safety. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.