"Examining the bits of evidence and interviewing traders and other people concerned, we have come to the conclusion that the fire originated from a short circuit at shop No. 216," said MA Razzak, chairman of the three-member probe committee and director (Administration, Operations and Development ) of Fire Service and Civil Defence.

The probe committee estimated damage of around Tk 51 crore that contradicts the traders' estimate of around Tk 200 crore.

Brushing aside the allegation of arson, Razzak told reporters that the committee interviewed all the people concerned including those who alleged arson but did not find any evidence.

"We did not have any sort of pressure from any section concerning the investigation," Razzak said, claiming the report fair and unbiased.

"The market had illegal and complex electrical connections like a web that had the risk of causing such accidents," said another member.

The committee made a number of recommendations regarding safe electrical connections and fire extinguishing systems in the city markets.