A devastating fire broke out on Wednesday at MGR Colony, opposite Chikanna Government Arts College in Tiruppur, gutting 42 makeshift homes of migrant labourers. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.
The blaze was triggered by the explosion of a cooking gas cylinder, reportedly caused by a leakage. The labourers, originally from Chengam in Tiruvannamalai district, were away at work when the fire erupted.
Fire and Rescue Service teams from both Tiruppur North and South stations rushed to the scene. Around 30 firefighters battled the inferno for nearly three hours, using water transported in 10 container trucks to douse the flames.
Despite their efforts, the fire consumed all belongings in the shacks — including clothes, essential documents, jewellery, and three two-wheelers. The families have been left with nothing but ashes.
Authorities suspect the initial blast came from one of the unattended LPG cylinders. A detailed investigation is underway to confirm the cause and assess the full extent of the damage.