Ludhiana, March 8 -- A late-night blaze ravaged a garment showroom in the bustling Ghumar Mandi market on Friday, destroying large stocks of clothing and partially damaging an adjoining shop.

No casualties were reported, though the establishment suffered substantial losses, fire officials said.

Firefighters battled the flames for over two-and-a-half hours before bringing the situation under control.

According to fire officials, a distress call was received around 9.50 pm. By the time the first fire tenders reached the spot, flames had already engulfed the three-storey showroom and were threatening to spread to neighbouring establishments in the densely packed commercial hub.

Ghumar Mandi is among the city's busiest markets and remains...