A devastating fire broke out at Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok, Thailand, resulting in the tragic deaths of hundreds of caged animals on Tuesday. The fire, which started early in the morning, rapidly spread across more than 100 shops in the market's pet section, as confirmed by the Bangkok government.
Efforts to contain the fire took approximately an hour, with no reported human casualties. However, reports from Thai media indicated that the blaze claimed the lives of numerous animals, including puppies, fish, snakes, birds, and rabbits that were confined in cages within the shops.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, who visited the scene following the extinguishing of the fire, stated that investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing. In the aftermath, officials were observed at the site, surveying the charred shops and rescuing surviving animals by breaking metal gates.
The extent of the damage is still being assessed, with affected shop owners being advised to register for compensation. Chatuchak Weekend Market, known for its vast array of shops and stalls offering a variety of goods, is a popular destination for tourists worldwide, attracting visitors seeking food, clothing, furniture, plants, books, and pets.
Concerns have been raised by wildlife organizations regarding the potential involvement of some vendors in the trafficking of rare and endangered species, such as turtles, tortoises, and birds, within the market.
