Bolangir, June 26: A major fire broke out in Bolangir town early Friday morning, destroying at least eight shops and causing property damage estimated at over ₹1 crore. Preliminary reports suggest that the blaze was triggered by a short circuit.
The incident occurred at a three-storey market complex in Gandhinagar locality along National Highway-26. According to eyewitnesses, smoke was first noticed billowing from one of the ground-floor shops at around 5:30 am. Locals immediately alerted the Fire and Emergency Services, but before firefighters could bring the situation under control, the flames had spread rapidly to adjoining shops.
More than three fire tenders were rushed to the spot and launched an extensive firefighting operation. After several hours of effort, the blaze was brought under control, preventing it from spreading further.
The fire completely gutted a garage, a furniture showroom, a mixture and electrical goods shop, a vehicle spare parts outlet, an electric vehicle (EV) bike garage, and partially damaged a medicine store. Around 20 motorcycles, scooters, and electric vehicles that had been kept at the garage for repairs were also reduced to ashes.
Officials suspect that the fire originated due to an electrical short circuit, though the exact cause will be confirmed after a detailed investigation.
While no casualties have been reported, the incident caused extensive destruction to commercial establishments and vehicles. Authorities estimate the total loss to be in excess of ₹1 crore.
The administration is assessing the extent of the damage, and a detailed inquiry into the incident has been initiated.
