In a recent incident in central India’s Madhya Pradesh, a building experienced a sudden fire and explosion involving multiple installed meters.

The incident took place at a supermarket in Jabalpur on July 15.

Visuals showed a dramatic scene where a meter box caught fire, prompting a man’s desperate efforts to contain it. Despite his attempts, the flames and sparks grew, escalating fear and distress among nearby residents witnessing the unfolding incident.

According to reports, on Monday evening, over a dozen electricity meters were installed on the lowest floor of a three-storey supermarket building when a sudden fire broke out. Local people immediately informed the electricity department and fire brigade about the explosion in the meter, after which the electricity department team reached the spot and cut the supply line of the building.

Many people were reportedly trapped on the building’s upper floor during the incident. Local residents immediately informed the electricity department after the fire started. They also mentioned that the first meter to catch fire was a smart meter. The electricity department is now investigating the cause of the fire.

Reportedly, there is significant resentment among traders regarding the use of smart meters. They claim that the promise of consistent electricity supply is proving to be hollow, as power is only available for three to four hours a day in the scorching heat, negatively impacting their businesses.