Cuttack, June 19: A major fire broke out at the Orifoam factory located at Padmapur under Jagatpur police limits in Salepur block of Cuttack district, reducing property worth lakhs of rupees to ashes.

According to reports, the fire erupted at around 3 a.m. on Thursday. The blaze spread rapidly, engulfing a large portion of the factory and causing extensive damage. Assets worth several lakhs of rupees were reportedly destroyed in the incident.

Upon receiving information, six fire tenders from Salepur and Cuttack rushed to the spot and launched firefighting operations. After hours of effort, the fire was brought under control.

Fire Services officials said the absence of a proper access road to the interior of the factory premises hampered rescue and firefighting operations, resulting in delays in controlling the blaze.

Local residents alleged that the factory is situated in a densely populated area and lacked adequate fire safety infrastructure. They claimed the absence of fire-prevention equipment made it difficult to contain the flames quickly.

The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident.