BHOPAL: A fire broke out in a three-storey commercial building in Bhopal’s Lalghati area early on Sunday, prompting a major firefighting operation. No casualties were reported.
The blaze was discovered after a security guard at a neighbouring building noticed smoke billowing from the structure, which houses several restaurants and shops. Initially, the smoke was mistaken for routine kitchen exhaust, but emergency services were alerted after flames became visible.
Eight fire tenders, including water tankers, were deployed from different parts of the city. Firefighters had to break through a wall to gain access to the affected area. The fire was brought under control after about an hour of firefighting efforts.
Officials said the fire originated in the kitchen area of a restaurant located on the upper floors of the building before spreading downward. Four commercial LPG cylinders stored in the kitchen were removed in time, preventing a potentially more serious incident.
Preliminary investigations suggest the fire may have been caused by a short circuit. The restaurant was closed at the time of the incident, and no injuries were reported. Authorities said the extent of the damage is being assessed.
