Massive fire erupts in busy market complex in southern India, causes panic
by Aditi VermaA massive fire broke out in southern India’s Andhra Pradesh, causing panic among locals. The blaze, which erupted in the Chitturi complex, has prompted a swift response from fire personnel who are working to control the flames.
The incident took place in the Chitturi complex in Kaleswara Rao market in Vijayawada on July 10.
Visuals showed a fierce fire raging in a market complex, with flames so intense they were visible from a distance. The building was surrounded by a crowd of onlookers, creating a scene of chaos and panic. Fire trucks were present at the site, battling the blaze amidst the tumult.
The fire originated in the Chitturi complex, a two-story building housing various shops, including those selling gift articles, plastic goods, and bangles. According to initial reports, the fire is believed to have started from an air conditioning unit and quickly spread due to the presence of flammable plastic goods.
The densely packed market area, known for its business complexes and continuous commercial activities, was thrown into chaos as the fire spread. Locals, alarmed by the sudden outbreak, immediately notified the fire department. Fire crews arrived promptly and have been working tirelessly to prevent the fire from spreading further.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as people fled the Chitturi complex, where all shops operate on a wholesale basis, sending parcels to various areas. The fire, which started in the evening, has been partially controlled, but efforts are ongoing to fully extinguish the blaze and assess the damage.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, with preliminary suspicions pointing towards an electrical short circuit. The police are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause and ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future.
The occurrence of a fire in such a densely populated commercial area has left locals on edge. The swift action of the fire personnel has been crucial in mitigating what could have been a much larger disaster.