Sri Lanka, March 8 -- 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.

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