Thai ancient market destroyed by fire

ANGTHONG: -- An ancient market in Thailand's central province of Angthong was mostly destroyed by a fire which broke out early Tuesday morning.

The Visetchaicharn Market, which had conserved and featured the traditional way of life of central Thai people for almost 100 years, was badly damaged by the fire, according to local authorities.

The blaze began at around 03:00 a.m. and quickly spread and razed the area--mostly are traditional wooden structures--for hours before it was under control.

Local residents and traders were evacuated from the area safely and there has been no report of any casualties.

The local authorities have set up a relief centre to assist people whose houses and shops destroyed by the fire, as well as others who have also been

affected by the blaze.

An official investigation is underway on the cause of the fire.

--TNA 2005-12-06

This raises questions about general fire safety in such "wooden" areas,

and the ability of the Fire Brigade to deal with emergencies.

If the area was razed to the ground, then clearly they cannot cope!