A devastating fire at Bangkok’s famous Chatuchak market has claimed the lives of around 1,000 animals, including birds, dogs, cats, snakes, rats, pythons, and geckos. The fire, which started from an electrical short circuit, gutted nearly 100 shops in the pet zone of the market.
The incident has reignited calls for authorities to shut down the controversial pet zone, which has long been criticized for the poor living conditions of the animals, leading to high rates of disease and death. The market, known for its bustling lanes and attracting nearly 200,000 tourists every weekend, has faced scrutiny over the treatment of animals in the pet zone.
Shop owners, like Amporn Wannasut, who lost their livelihoods in the fire, are devastated and unsure of their next steps. The damage caused by the fire has left many shop owners in distress, with some even lining up to register for compensation.
Animal rights groups, including Peta and the Wildlife Friends Foundation, have condemned the incident, calling for immediate action to prevent such tragedies in the future. The Wildlife Friends Foundation described Chatuchak market as a “shame on Bangkok” and urged the authorities to stop the cruelty towards animals.
The fire, which broke out early Tuesday morning and was extinguished within 30 minutes, has left a lasting impact on the market and its community. As investigations continue into the cause of the fire, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of animals in the market.
