Jombang market fire causes Rp 5b losses

Jombang market fire causes Rp 5b losses

The Jakarta Post, Tangerang

A fire that razed the Jombang traditional market in Ciputat,
Tangerang, was estimated to have caused over Rp 5 billion
(US$595,238) in losses to vendors, the market's boss said on
Wednesday.

Nuskah said 395 kiosks were burned in the fire, allegedly
caused by an electrical short circuit.

He called on the Tangerang Regency to totally rebuild the
market because its fire-affected condition would endanger both
traders and buyers.

"We were lucky there were no fatalities. The fire started at
around 7 p.m. when all kiosks were already closed."

The fire began at a kiosk in Block B but spread quickly as
most kiosks sold flammable garments, basic commodities and
household appliances. Ten fire engines managed to put out the
fire three hours later.

Makdun, 56, who owned eight kiosks in the market, complained
he suffered over Rp 200 million losses in the blaze.

"I could only save some clothes from one of my kiosks. I
wonder why the fire did not only start from one point," he said.

He complained locals looted goods from the burning kiosks
instead of helping the traders.

"It was very dark and it was raining. We didn't know who were
the kiosk owners and who were the plunderers."

The Jombang market began operating in August 1999.