Udupi: A massive fire that broke out in a commercial building near the City Bus Stand in Udupi has caused an estimated loss of around ₹2.5 crore, officials said. The incident, which occurred on Sunday evening, led to extensive damage to multiple shops and required prolonged firefighting efforts.
Blaze triggered by suspected short circuit
According to preliminary reports, the fire is believed to have been caused by an electrical short circuit in a plastic goods storage godown owned by Bhima, a businessman originally from Rajasthan. The flames quickly spread within the premises, intensifying due to the presence of highly flammable materials.
The fire completely gutted Bhima’s plastic goods shop as well as his mobile shop located in the same building. The rapid spread of the blaze also affected two to three neighbouring shops, leading to further financial losses.
Firefighting operation continues overnight
Fire and emergency services personnel rushed to the spot soon after the blaze was reported and launched an extensive firefighting operation. The effort continued through the night and lasted until around 7 am on Monday.
Although the fire was initially brought under control late at night, it reignited multiple times due to residual heat and combustible materials inside the godown. Firefighters stationed at the location acted swiftly each time to prevent the flames from spreading further.
Officials said the presence of plastic materials and stored goods made the operation particularly challenging, requiring sustained efforts to fully extinguish the fire.
Four shops reduced to ashes
The disaster resulted in the complete destruction of four shops belonging to the same owner. Apart from the goods, the fire also caused severe structural damage to the building, including shutters and internal fittings.
The scale of destruction has left the business owner facing substantial financial loss, with damages estimated at approximately ₹2.5 crore.
Owner hospitalised after shock
Deeply affected by the incident, shop owner Bhima reportedly fell seriously ill after witnessing the destruction of his businesses. He was admitted to a hospital and is currently undergoing treatment.
Authorities have not reported any casualties from the fire, but the incident has raised concerns over fire safety measures in commercial areas, especially those dealing with flammable materials.
Conclusion
The fire near Udupi’s City Bus Stand highlights the devastating impact such incidents can have on livelihoods and infrastructure. While timely action by fire personnel helped prevent further spread, the loss remains significant.
Officials are expected to conduct a detailed inspection to confirm the exact cause of the fire and assess safety compliance, as traders in the area call for improved preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.