Bhubaneswar: A massive fire engulfed a multi-storey supermarket near Dhauli–Lingipur in Bhubaneswar, late Monday night, prompting an extensive firefighting operation that continued for more than 14 hours.
According to media reports, the blaze erupted at approximately 10:20 PM on the fourth floor of the commercial building situated on Lingipur Lewis Road under Dhauli police jurisdiction. The fire spread swiftly through the structure, fuelled by highly flammable materials stored inside.
More than five fire tenders were deployed to the spot as crews battled intense flames and heavy smoke. Authorities stated that significant quantities of plastic goods kept across the second, third, and fourth floors worsened the situation, accelerating the spread and complicating containment efforts. Firefighters used cranes to access upper floors and break portions of the exterior walls to control the blaze.
Four staff members were inside the premises when the incident occurred. One employee reportedly detected the fire and immediately alerted the owner, who then contacted emergency services.
Preliminary indications suggest a possible short circuit may have triggered the fire, though the exact cause is yet to be officially confirmed. Officials estimate that property and merchandise worth over Rs 1 crore have been destroyed.
No injuries or fatalities have been reported. Fire personnel remain at the site to ensure complete extinguishment and prevent any re-ignition. An investigation is ongoing.
