UDUPI: A major fire broke out at a private restaurant near RSB Hall in Manipal on Thursday evening, after a short circuit reportedly ignited a blaze that led to the explosion of two gas cylinders inside the premises. The incident caused extensive property damage but, fortunately, resulted in no injuries.
Fire spreads to nearby shop and damages vehicles
According to officials, the fire began inside the Delhi Dhaba restaurant at around dusk. Within minutes, the flames intensified, fuelled by the explosion of two LPG cylinders stored inside the kitchen area. The blast force was strong enough to impact the neighbouring hotel and damage a car parked adjacent to the restaurant.
The fire then spread to the adjoining shop, causing significant loss of property and merchandise. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion followed by a surge of flames, leading to panic among passers-by and nearby residents.
Local business owners said the blaze moved swiftly across the premises, leaving little time for anyone to salvage goods or belongings. The intensity of the flames also created thick smoke, visible from several blocks away, prompting immediate calls for emergency assistance.
Firefighters contain flames and avert major disaster
Fire and Emergency Services personnel arrived promptly and worked for nearly an hour to bring the situation under control. Their timely intervention prevented the flames from spreading to a cluster of nearby commercial establishments and residential buildings, which could have resulted in a far more devastating outcome.
Officials stated that the quick response ensured that the fire did not extend beyond the immediate structures affected. The team also cooled the cylinders and secured the surrounding area to avoid the risk of secondary explosions or fire flare-ups.
The damaged car, parked a few metres away from the restaurant, bore visible signs of heat exposure and debris impact. However, no individuals were found to be in harm’s path at the time of the explosion.
Police confirm cause, dismiss rumours of foul play
Udupi Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar confirmed that the fire originated due to a short circuit inside the Delhi Dhaba restaurant. He stated that both the police and fire department officials had inspected the site thoroughly.
“There is no suspicion. I am giving this clarification so that no rumours spread. No one was injured,” the SP said, urging the public not to speculate or circulate misinformation.
Authorities have taken preliminary documentation of the incident, and a formal report is expected to be submitted after assessing the full extent of the damage.
Businesses assess losses, investigation underway
Shop owners and neighbouring commercial establishments have begun evaluating the damage caused by the fire and the subsequent explosion. While the adjoining shop suffered heavy losses, the structural damage to the restaurant is expected to require major repairs.
The district fire department is preparing a detailed assessment, including safety recommendations to prevent such incidents in the future, especially in commercial hubs where gas-based kitchens operate in close proximity to other buildings.
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of regular electrical maintenance, safety checks, and proper storage of LPG cylinders in high-density business areas.