Ludhiana: A massive fire erupted in a four-storey commercial complex opposite Atma Park police post on Monday night, destroying several car accessory outlets and sparking panic in the area. The blaze, which broke out around 10:30 pm, was finally contained after a prolonged firefighting effort.
Locals reported seeing smoke and flames billowing from the building’s first floor, prompting frantic efforts to control the fire before professional help arrived. However, the tightly packed structure made it nearly impossible for residents to reach the source of the flames.
Fire department officials confirmed that at least three accessory shops suffered heavy losses, with stock worth lakhs reduced to cinders. Witnesses described hearing loud popping sounds from inside the premises as plastic and electrical equipment caught fire.
Teams from the fire brigade rushed four tankers to the spot and battled the flames for nearly one and a half hours before declaring the situation under control. Residents in nearby houses were evacuated as a safety measure while traffic in the lane was temporarily halted.
“Preliminary investigation suggests the fire originated due to a short circuit. Thankfully, there are no casualties,” a senior fire officer said.
The incident has once again raised concerns over fire safety measures in densely populated market areas, where inadequate emergency exits and congested layouts make firefighting operations more difficult. Authorities are expected to carry out a detailed inquiry into the structural safety of the building.
