Properties worth millions turned into ashes after a fire broke out at the business hub of Khewang VDC in Taplejung district on Monday morning.

According to a local businessman, Umesh Gautam, the fire that started from house and shop of a local, Bhim Prasad Dahal, destroyed clothes, goods at the shop, stored large cardamom among other materials.

Gautam said that the fire was contained before it could spread with the help of locals.

Although electrical short circuit has been suspected as the cause for the fire, authorities are yet to ascertain the exact cause.