Fire at Itahari’s Centre Plaza Brought Under Control After Six-Hour Effort

The massive fire that erupted at Centre Plaza, a 10-story commercial complex in Itahari, has been successfully brought under control after a challenging six-hour effort. The fire, which began around 9:30 a.m., required the coordinated efforts of 12 fire engines from various local authorities and the deployment of approximately 300 personnel from Nepal Police, the Armed Police Force, and the Nepali Army.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Yograj Khatiwada, spokesperson for the District Police Office, Sunsari, confirmed that the scale of the building contributed to the extended duration needed to control the blaze. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire and assessing the extent of the damage, with official reports yet to be released.

In response to the incident, the Ministry of Home Affairs dispatched a Nepali Army helicopter from Kathmandu to assist in the rescue operation. Eleven individuals trapped inside the building were successfully rescued, including Bangladesh national MD Jay, America Rai, Laxmi Shrestha, Bijay Dhami, Bishnu Tamang, Sanjay Jaiswal, Dia Raya, Bishal Singh, Ashish Chaudhary, and two others.

According to DSP Khatiwada, all those rescued are reported to be in stable health. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.