New Delhi, Apr 30: A major fire broke out on Wednesday night at Dilli Haat, the popular open-air crafts bazaar in South Delhi’s INA, leaving several artisan stalls, including those of Kashmiri traders, likely damaged. The blaze, which erupted around 8.55 pm, prompted an immediate emergency response.
“We received a call regarding fire at Dilli Haat Market INA at 8.55 pm and have deployed 13 fire engines at the spot. Further operation is underway,” a Delhi Fire Services official told Press Trust of India (PTI).
The extent of the damage is yet to be fully assessed, but the market is known for its vibrant display of regional crafts from across India, including stalls featuring intricate Kashmiri shawls, hand-knotted carpets, papier-mâché artefacts, and walnut wood carvings.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta acknowledged the incident on social media, noting that the situation had been brought under control. “The news of the fire incident at Dilli Haat is unfortunate. The team of firefighters have brought the fire under control. No casualties have been reported so far. We are closely monitoring the situation & ensuring all necessary assistance to those affected,” she wrote on X, formerly Twitter, according to ANI.
Dilli Haat is more than just a market—it’s a cultural showcase, hosting artisans from various states on a rotational basis under government schemes meant to promote handicrafts. Hundreds of tourists, diplomats and foreigners regularly visit this market.
