Major Blaze Devastates Dilli Haat Market; Over 30 Shops Gutted, No Casualties Reported
New Delhi, May 1, 2025 — A devastating fire broke out at the popular Dilli Haat market in South Delhi’s INA area on Wednesday night, reducing at least 30 shops to ashes and causing massive losses to traders. The blaze, which erupted around 8:45 p.m. on April 30, 2025, was brought under control after a prolonged firefighting operation, officials from the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) confirmed.
According to DFS chief Atul Garg, a distress call was received at 8:55 p.m., and 14 fire engines were rushed to the scene. “The fire was massive and spread rapidly across the market. A total of 30 shops were completely gutted. Thankfully, there are no reports of any casualties,” he stated.
Videos from the site showed towering flames and thick smoke engulfing the open-air craft and food market as shopkeepers and bystanders looked on in despair. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as traders rushed to save whatever goods they could before being forced to evacuate.
Early estimates of the damage are staggering. “I have lost goods worth at least ₹1.5 crore,” said Shauket Ahmed, one of the affected shopkeepers. Another trader, who chose to remain anonymous, claimed that the collective losses among the shops could be as high as ₹10 crore. “This stall was our family’s only source of income. We had taken a loan to run it. Everything is gone,” he lamented.
The fire’s cause has not yet been officially confirmed, but several shopkeepers suspect it may have started due to a short circuit.
Multiple vendors alleged that there were no proper fire safety arrangements in place. “There were no fire extinguishers, no alarms — nothing. The fire spread so quickly we couldn’t even react,” said Vijai Kumar, who sells Madhubani paintings at the market. “It took nearly one and a half hours for the fire brigade to fully reach and start containment. We were left helpless.”
The Delhi Police initially reported that 25 shops had been destroyed but later revised the figure to 30. Police and fire department teams remained at the site on Thursday morning as investigations into the incident continued.
While no injuries were reported, the emotional and financial toll on the affected vendors has been severe. Many have called for an immediate probe into the market’s safety protocols and compensation for their losses.
Dilli Haat, a cultural landmark in the heart of Delhi, is known for showcasing traditional crafts and cuisines from across India. Wednesday’s fire has left a charred void in a space that was not only a commercial hub but also a symbol of India’s diverse artistic heritage.
Further updates are awaited as authorities assess the damage and determine liability.
