Market fire cripples economy

Market fire cripples economy

PADANG, West Sumatra: The loss of the Pasar Atas Bukittinggi shopping complex in a fire last week has practically crippled the economy of this tourist city.

The fire destroyed 780 kiosks. The total loss has yet to be calculated but preliminary estimates put damages at more than Rp 20 billion ($10 million).

Thousands of people have lost their jobs due to the fire, which injured two persons slightly.

Among buildings lost in the fire was a branch office of Bank Negara Indonesia, Antara reported.

Bukittinggi Mayor Armedi Agus said the fire was the worst in the last 23 years. He promised to provide temporary market places for the victims. (rms)