Ayothaya floating market on fire

A predawn fire broke out at the cultural performance stage of the famous Ayothaya Floating Market in the ancient city of Ayutthaya causing  damage worth more than one million  baht to the stage and the musical instruments.

According to Ayutthaya police, the fire happened at about 6.30am on Saturday before the floating market will open to visitors.

One security guard at the market said the fire incident happened as traders were preparing  their stalls before the market would open at 8.00am.

He said he heard explosion at the show  stage where the light and special  effect system was installed for cultural shows.

The fire ripped through the stage quickly because it was mostly made of woods, and covered with thatched roofs.

Firefighters were alerted and arrived shortly afterwards.

The fire was put under control in half and hour but the main performance stage was complete burnt down.

Forensic police inspecting the fire scene late this morning but still did not establish the exact cause of the fire.

Initially they believed electrical short circuit  at the stage lighting and special effect might be the probable cause.