Pathsala, Nov. 9 -- Amid Diwali celebrations, a massive fire broke out in Pathsala town in Assam's Bajali district on Sunday, gutting eight business establishments and causing extensive property damage.

According to reports, the fire originated at Upasana Khelaghar, a sports goods store, before rapidly spreading to neighbouring shops.

Four fire tenders rushed to the spot and brought the blaze under control after prolonged firefighting efforts.

Bajali MLA Dharmeswar Roy, District Commissioner Madhumita Bhagaboty and a police team led by Superintendent of Police Pankaj Yadav also visited the site to assess the situation.

The exact cause of the fire and the total extent of the damage are yet to be ascertained.

Preliminary estimates sugg...