A fire erupted on Friday morning at the prestigious Banaras Hindu University (BHU), causing alarm at its Cyber Library Study Centre. The incident, which sparked in the facility's UPS room, led to the swift evacuation of hundreds of students but resulted in no injuries.
Timely Response Prevents Casualties
The fire was reported at 8:55 am, according to an official university spokesperson. At the time of the incident, approximately 400 students were utilizing the library's resources. Thanks to prompt action by the staff and authorities, every single student was evacuated from the building without harm. Officials confirmed that the students were also able to safely retrieve their personal belongings during the evacuation process.
Damage and Immediate Investigation
The blaze was contained to the UPS room, where it caused damage to critical equipment. A UPS unit, several batteries, and some unused equipment were destroyed in the fire. Responding to the emergency, two fire engines rushed to the campus located in Varanasi. The firefighters managed to bring the flames under control within 30 minutes of their arrival, preventing the fire from spreading to other sections of the library.
While a detailed investigation is underway, preliminary reports point towards a short circuit as the likely cause of the fire. This initial suspicion has raised concerns about electrical safety audits in institutional buildings.
Library Access Restricted After Incident
In the aftermath of the fire, the university administration has taken precautionary measures. The library area has been cordoned off for safety assessments and investigations. Furthermore, a temporary restriction on student entry has been imposed until authorities can ensure the structural and electrical integrity of the facility. This disruption is expected to affect study routines as the Cyber Library is a central hub for student research and academic work at BHU.
The incident highlights the importance of robust fire safety protocols in educational institutions, especially in areas housing sensitive electronic equipment. The successful evacuation of all students underscores the effectiveness of the emergency response drills at the university.
