CHIANG MAI, Nov 28 (TNA) – In the wake of a predawn blaze that engulfed a century-old building in Chiang Mai’s central business district this morning, authorities have initiated a rapid and intensive investigation to determine the cause of the fire.
In early morning, a fire broke out at a century-old building in the central business district of Chiang Mai. Preliminary reports indicate that nine adjacent buildings were affected, with damages estimated at no less than 100 million baht.
Currently, authorities are expediting the assessment of damages and investigating the clear cause after local residents claimed to have seen floating lanterns landing on the building’s roof.
Mr. Nirat Pongsitthithavorn, the governor of Chiang Mai province inspected the fire scene, which occurred at a three-story commercial building. Some sections of the building had been renovated for storage purposes. The incident took place near the Ton Lamyai market area in the city center of Chiang Mai.
The governor said that they are in the process of determining the cause of the fire and must await the official investigation to collect evidence before reaching any conclusions, whether related to floating lanterns or not. Meanwhile, the use of floating lanterns within the city limits of Chiang Mai has been temporarily prohibited. Authorities will seize any found during inspections. (TNA)
