Bamka bazaar rebuilt and reviving after devastating fire

Bajura: The appearance of Bamka Bazaar in Budhiganga Municipality-6, Bajura, is changing after being devastated by a massive fire on Jestha 23.

Once known as the main commercial hub of the region, Bamka Bazaar was destroyed when a gas cylinder exploded at the Navadurga Hotel, reducing 36 shops to ashes.

With financial support from the federal and provincial governments, local authorities, social organizations, and individual donors, reconstruction work has transformed the market’s appearance.

Deepak Saud, who had been running a solar and electrical shop in the market since 2063 BS, lost his entire business in the fire. “Although Bamka Bazaar looks like just a market to outsiders, it has been our home for almost 19 years,” Saud said. “With help from friends and donors, I rebuilt my shop and resumed trading, but I am still facing financial difficulties.”

Bamka Bazaar has historically been one of Bajura’s busiest trading centers, attracting buyers from Triveni, Budhiganga Municipality, and Khaptad Chhededah Rural Municipality. Known for affordable clothing and daily essentials, the market’s destruction had left traders devastated and the area in disarray for weeks.

While the market’s physical appearance has been restored, many fire victims remain financially strained, having lost property and assets built over two decades. The fire caused losses worth over Rs 150 million, completely destroying houses and shops.

With over Rs 10 million worth of food, clothing, and cash assistance received from various sources, huts and shops have now been rebuilt, giving the market a fresh look. “The market that looked ruined just days ago is now regaining its vibrancy,” said Meghnath Padhya, Chief District Officer of Bajura and Coordinator of the District Disaster Management Committee.