Chennai: A fire broke out at the BSNL office building on Anna Salai on Saturday morning, triggering panic along one of the city’s busiest commercial corridors and briefly disrupting traffic and services in the area. Officials confirmed that no casualties were reported in the incident.
According to Fire and Rescue Services officials, the blaze was detected around 9.30 am after thick smoke was seen billowing from the second floor of the multi-storey BSNL building. Passersby and nearby shopkeepers alerted emergency services, following which multiple fire tenders were rushed to the spot. Firefighters battled the flames for over an hour before successfully bringing the situation under control.
Suspected electrical short circuit
Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit. Police officials said a battery stored in one of the rooms on the second floor is suspected to have exploded, possibly triggering the blaze. However, authorities stressed that the exact cause will be confirmed only after a detailed technical and forensic inspection of the premises.
Fire officials said the flames were largely confined to the second floor, which helped prevent a major escalation. Swift action by the fire personnel ensured that the blaze did not spread to other parts of the building or nearby structures.
Traffic disruption on Anna Salai
As dense smoke engulfed the building, traffic on Anna Salai slowed considerably, causing congestion during peak morning hours. Several motorists stopped to watch the firefighting operation and record videos, further adding to the traffic snarls on the arterial road.
Police personnel were deployed at key junctions to regulate vehicular movement and ensure public safety. Traffic was gradually restored after the fire was brought under control and smoke levels reduced.
Impact on BSNL services
The fire led to temporary disruptions in some critical services housed within the BSNL facility. Officials said an assessment is underway to determine the extent of damage to infrastructure, equipment, and records. Restoration work will begin once safety clearances are obtained.
BSNL authorities assured that alternative arrangements are being made to minimise inconvenience to customers. Senior officials visited the site to review the situation and coordinate with emergency services.
Investigation underway
Authorities have launched a detailed investigation to ascertain the precise cause of the fire and evaluate whether existing safety measures were adequate. Electrical systems, battery storage protocols, and fire safety compliance at the facility will be examined as part of the inquiry.
Fire and police officials reiterated the importance of regular safety audits, especially in buildings housing critical infrastructure and equipment. They also urged the public to avoid crowding at emergency sites, as it hampers rescue and firefighting operations.
Conclusion
While the fire at the BSNL office on Anna Salai caused panic and temporary disruptions, the timely response of the Fire and Rescue Services prevented a major disaster. With no casualties reported, authorities are now focused on completing the investigation, assessing damage, and ensuring that services are restored safely and swiftly.