The fire started near the well-known Badshah Cold Drinks and Snacks outlet. Locals first noticed smoke around 6:30 am and quickly informed the fire brigade.
By the time firefighters reached the spot, one shop was already in flames. The fire is suspected to have been caused by a short circuit, though the exact reason is still under investigation.
Fire officials said the shop had a large amount of plastic material, which led to thick smoke spreading across the area. The smoke was so dense that firefighters could not enter the premises at first.
A total of five fire engines and three jumbo water tankers were deployed. Special smoke exhaust equipment had to be used before the team could begin full firefighting operations.
The blaze was brought under control after nearly four hours. However, cooling operations continued even later in the day to prevent the fire from restarting.
Another nearby shop, which sold kitchenware, was also affected. Though it did not catch fire directly, its stock was damaged during efforts to control the blaze.
Eyewitnesses said nearly 70% of goods in the affected shops were destroyed.
In a separate incident, another fire broke out late Saturday night near Mumbai Central at DB Marg, where multiple shops in a building were affected.
No injuries have been reported so far, but the incidents have raised concerns over fire safety in crowded market areas.
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