Fire devastates hundreds of caged animals at Bangkok market

Over 100 pet stalls were destroyed in a fire at Bangkok's acclaimed Chatuchak Weekend Market.

A blaze has killed hundreds, likely thousands, of animals confined at a notable market in Thailand.

The fire tore through the pet area of Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok early Tuesday morning, the city authorities announced.

The flames are presumed to have originated in the ornamental fish section of Sri Somrat Market, adjacent to Chatuchak, around 4am (21:00 GMT), according to Tivakorn Prongseng, a police inspector handling the case.

Over 100 pet stalls spanning roughly 1,300 square meters (14,000 square feet) were engulfed before the fire was controlled an hour later. No human injuries have been reported.

Shop owner Meecha told the online portal Thaiger that she was woken up by the animals’ screams, the BBC reported.

“Thick smoke suddenly enveloped the area, making it hard to breathe,” said Meecha, who escaped through a window.

Some shop owners reside in the market; however, the exact number present during the fire remains unclear, as reported by the BBC.

A firefighter rescues a bird, following a fire in which exotic animals, reptiles and pets perished at Chatuchak Weekend Market, in Bangkok — A firefighter rescues a bird, following a fire in which exotic animals, reptiles and pets perished, at Chatuchak Weekend Market [Chalinee Thirasupa/Reuters]

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt and other officials were seen at the location, assessing the burned shops. Metal gates were being removed to rescue surviving animals.

Authorities are still calculating the total damage. Affected shop owners were told they could file for compensation.

This isn't the first instance of a fire at the market. In 2013, at least 20 shops in the fashion section were destroyed in another blaze.

Animal welfare and trafficking issues

Firefighter rescuing a bird after a fire at Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok

The vast Chatuchak Market is a prime attraction for tourists and a favorite shopping spot for locals. It features numerous shops and stalls offering a variety of goods, including food, beverages, clothing, furniture, plants, and books.

The pet area has long faced criticism for the poor conditions in which some animals are kept.

Wildlife organizations have also accused some sellers of participating in the trade of rare and endangered species such as turtles, tortoises, and birds.

Thailand enforces strict penalties for wildlife trafficking and regularly carries out raids to combat illegal trade.

Current laws impose a maximum penalty of four years imprisonment or a fine of up to 40,000 baht ($1,000).

Nonetheless, conservationists argue many traffickers elude imprisonment due to their connections with high-ranking government or military officials.