Balangir, June 26: A major fire broke out in Bolangir town on Friday, gutting at least eight shops and causing property damage worth several lakhs of rupees. A short circuit is suspected to have triggered the blaze.

According to reports, the fire engulfed multiple commercial establishments, including a garage, a furniture showroom, a snack shop, a medical store and an automobile spare parts shop. The flames spread rapidly, destroying goods and infrastructure before firefighters could bring the situation under control.

On receiving information, more than three fire tenders rushed to the spot and launched an extensive firefighting operation. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, though preliminary reports indicate that an electrical short circuit may have sparked the incident.

No casualties have been reported so far. Authorities are assessing the extent of the damage, while an investigation has been initiated to determine the cause of the fire.