A major fire gutted a gift shop and partially damaged neighbouring outlets in a commercial complex in Belthangady on Saturday morning, with losses estimated at around ₹30 lakh.
According to personnel from the Fire and Emergency Services in Belthangady, the affected shop, owned by Mohammed Shamil, was located on the first floor of the building. The fire was reportedly noticed when the owner opened the shop in the morning.
No helium cylinder leak, say officials
Authorities clarified that although a helium gas cylinder was kept inside the shop, there was neither a gas leak nor any explosion involving the cylinder. This statement was issued to counter rumours circulating locally that the fire was triggered by a helium leak.
Fire officials said the exact cause of the blaze has not yet been ascertained and further investigation is underway.
Neighbouring shops damaged
The flames partially damaged a mobile phone shop and another adjacent outlet in the same commercial complex. The building itself sustained partial structural damage due to the intensity of the fire.
Upon receiving information, a fire tender rushed to the spot and managed to bring the blaze under control, preventing it from spreading further.
As news of the incident spread, a large number of people gathered along the roadside, leading to temporary traffic congestion. Belthangady police reached the location promptly, dispersed the crowd and ensured smooth vehicular movement in the area.
Officials are assessing the extent of the damage while inquiries continue to determine the precise cause of the incident.