A fire that broke out at several shops in Maharagama early this morning (08) has caused an estimated loss of around Rs. 40 million, traders say.

Addressing a media briefing, Kusumsiri Dasanayake, the Chairman of the Clothing Traders’ Association, said the fire affected multiple businesses in the area, though it did not originate from a clothing store.

According to Dasanayake, the fire is believed to have started at a shop selling ritual and ceremonial items, before spreading to nearby establishments. He noted that traders suffered significant financial losses as a result of the incident.
“We have incurred losses of nearly Rs. 40 million due to the fire that broke out in several shops this morning,” he said.

Despite the damage, Dasanayake emphasized that traders are taking steps to ensure there will be no shortage of clothing supplies during the upcoming festive season.

He also expressed appreciation to the Sri Lanka Police, municipal council workers, and Member of Parliament Dewananda Suraweera for their swift response in helping bring the fire under control shortly after it erupted.

However, some area residents have alleged that delays by the fire brigade contributed to the scale of the destruction, claiming a quicker response could have reduced the damage.

Authorities are expected to launch further investigations to determine the exact cause of the fire and assess the full extent of the losses.