Mangaluru: A residential house near Sagar Courts on Kalbhavi Road in Kottara was completely gutted in a fire that broke out in the early hours of February 20, reportedly due to a short circuit. Fortunately, all four members of the family residing in the house escaped unhurt.
The incident occurred at around 3.15 am when the occupants were asleep. The house belongs to Uday Kumar and is situated close to Sagar Courts in the Kottara locality of the city. According to preliminary information, the fire is believed to have originated from an electrical short circuit.
Fire breaks out at 3.15 am
Mangaluru residents in the neighbourhood were jolted awake after noticing flames and smoke emanating from the house. Uday Kumar, his wife, and their two children were asleep when the fire reportedly started. On sensing the danger and spotting the flames, the family rushed out of the house in a state of panic.
Their timely escape prevented what could have been a major tragedy. No injuries or casualties were reported in the incident, officials confirmed.
Neighbours immediately alerted the Fire and Emergency Services after seeing the blaze intensify. The fire spread rapidly through the structure, fuelled by household items and wooden fixtures inside the building.
House completely gutted
By the time fire personnel arrived at the spot, the flames had engulfed a major portion of the house. Firefighters worked swiftly to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to adjacent properties in the densely populated residential area.
After considerable effort, the fire was brought under control. However, the house was completely gutted in the blaze. Most of the household articles, furniture, electrical appliances, and personal belongings were destroyed.
Though the exact estimate of the property loss is yet to be officially assessed, residents indicated that the damage could run into several lakh rupees.
Preliminary cause: electrical short circuit
Initial reports suggest that the fire was triggered by an electrical short circuit. Officials are expected to conduct a detailed inspection to ascertain the exact cause and verify whether faulty wiring or an overloaded circuit may have led to the incident.
Fire and Emergency Services personnel have once again urged residents to ensure periodic inspection of electrical wiring and avoid overloading power sockets, especially in older buildings. They also advised the installation of basic fire safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and smoke alarms in residential premises.
Prompt response prevents further damage
Local residents played a crucial role in responding swiftly by alerting authorities and assisting the family. Their prompt action, coupled with the timely intervention of fire personnel, ensured that the fire did not spread to neighbouring houses.
Police personnel also visited the spot to gather details and assist in maintaining order during the firefighting operation.
While the incident has left the family shaken and homeless, the fact that all members escaped without injury has been seen as a major relief. Authorities have reiterated the importance of fire safety awareness and regular maintenance of electrical systems to prevent such mishaps in the future.
Further inquiry into the incident is underway.