Mangaluru: A major fire broke out at a shoe store in the busy Hampankatta area on Tuesday morning, completely destroying the establishment and causing damage to two neighbouring shops. The incident resulted in substantial property loss, though no casualties were immediately reported.
The fire engulfed Europe Shoes, reducing the store and its stock to ashes before spreading to adjacent commercial establishments. Thick smoke and flames drew the attention of local residents and shopkeepers, prompting an emergency response.
Blaze engulfs Europe Shoes
According to preliminary information, the fire originated inside Europe Shoes, a footwear outlet located in the commercial heart of Hampankatta.
Within a short span, the flames intensified and spread rapidly through the shop, completely gutting the premises. The fire also extended to two adjoining shops, damaging property and merchandise kept inside the establishments.
The exact extent of the damage to the neighbouring shops is yet to be officially assessed.
Firefighters launch swift operation
Personnel from the Fire and Emergency Services Department rushed to the spot soon after receiving information about the incident.
Firefighters launched an extensive operation to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to other commercial buildings in the crowded locality. Their prompt response helped bring the fire under control after battling the flames for some time.
Police also reached the scene to assist with crowd management and facilitate firefighting operations.
Short circuit suspected
Preliminary reports indicate that the fire may have been triggered by a short circuit, although the exact cause will be confirmed only after a detailed investigation by the concerned authorities.
Officials are expected to inspect the premises to determine the origin of the blaze and assess whether any electrical fault or other factors contributed to the incident.
Heavy property loss reported
The fire caused extensive damage to the shoe store, destroying footwear, furniture, electrical fittings and other materials kept inside the premises.
The two adjacent shops also suffered damage after the flames spread beyond the original source of the fire. Authorities are yet to estimate the total financial loss resulting from the incident.
Further investigation is underway, and officials are expected to submit a detailed report after completing the inspection. The incident has once again highlighted the importance of regular electrical safety checks in commercial establishments to prevent such accidents.