Senior Multimedia Reporter
radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
A fire that reignited yesterday along Cipero Street in San Fernando brought business activity to a near standstill for a second straight day, as firefighters were forced to return to contain fresh smoke and heat rising from the smouldering site.
Commerce on the normally bustling street slowed significantly.
The street was once again cordoned off, and pedestrian traffic thinned as fire crews worked to suppress pockets of flame deep within the debris.
Even the San Fernando Central Market saw sparse customer turnout, while traffic through the city centre clogged as motorists diverted to alternate routes.
Speaking to Guardian Media, businessman Pat Ramasir, whose business sits opposite the burnt structure, said the renewed fire brought back the same anxiety felt the day before.
Ramasir, who operates Ramasir’s Motor Supplies and Motor Repairs, said his staff arrived early yesterday only to see smoke drifting upward from the rubble.
“We immediately contacted the Fire Service, and they responded quickly,” he said.
“Yes, sales were affected, but the safety of our workers always comes first.”
Ramasir said he is grateful that all ten employees from the destroyed establishment were already absorbed into other branches of the company.
He also credited firefighters for their efforts on Thursday, noting that despite equipment limitations and water shortages, they prevented the blaze from spreading to densely packed neighbouring buildings.
“The firefighters did their best with what they had,” he said. “But business owners along Cipero Street believe we need more functioning hydrants, especially since every building here is commercial.”
Business operator Patsy Alexis also praised the firefighters, describing their work as “yeoman service,” especially under challenging conditions.
However, she noted that complaints about storage practices and late operating hours at the fire-damaged establishment had been sent to city officials before the blaze.
“Business people feel this fire could have been avoided if earlier concerns were addressed,” she said.
Les Efforts East/Cipero councillor Ryadd Hosein visited the scene and expressed sympathy for the store owner, saying the losses were devastating.
President of the Greater San Fernando Area Chamber of Commerce Kiran Singh, who also toured the area, said the timing could not have been worse.
“With two weeks to go before Christmas, this is very bad for business,” Singh said. “You will see lost income, lost employment and all at a time when stores rely heavily on holiday sales.
“This business was vibrant – open Sunday to Sunday – and their Christmas stock was already on display.”
He added that the incident was a heavy blow not only to the business owners but also to Cipero Street’s wider commercial community.
Singh also echoed praise for firefighters, emphasising that their quick action prevented what could have become a far more catastrophic event.
Fire officials said they will continue to monitor the site to ensure no further flare-ups disrupt the city.
