Udupi: Panic struck residents of Aditi Parva Apartment on Manipal DC Office Road on Wednesday afternoon after a washing machine caught fire and exploded inside a flat. A woman who was trapped in the apartment was rescued safely by fire personnel with the help of neighbours.
Incident details
According to sources, the incident occurred suddenly while the washing machine was in use. The fire spread rapidly, filling the flat with smoke and causing panic among residents of the building.
Hearing the commotion, locals rushed to help while simultaneously alerting the Udupi Fire and Emergency Services. Firefighters reached the scene promptly and managed to control the blaze before it spread to other parts of the apartment complex.
Losses reported
While no injuries were reported, officials estimated property damage worth ₹50,000. The washing machine was completely destroyed in the explosion, and portions of the flat suffered smoke and heat damage.
Woman rescued from flat
The woman inside the flat at the time of the fire was unable to escape due to the thick smoke. Fire personnel, with the cooperation of nearby residents, rescued her safely. Authorities confirmed that she did not suffer any injuries.
Community response
Residents of the apartment block expressed relief that the timely response of fire personnel prevented a larger disaster. Many also emphasised the importance of regular maintenance of home appliances and the installation of basic fire safety equipment inside flats to prevent such incidents in the future.
Investigation underway
Fire officials are investigating the exact cause of the washing machine fire, which is suspected to have been triggered by an electrical short circuit or overheating.