A devastating fire erupted in a shanty located in Pavitar Nagar, Ludhiana, on Tuesday, completely reducing the makeshift structure to ashes. The blaze also engulfed two school buses parked nearby, causing significant damage.
Incident Details
According to reports, a family residing in the shanty operated a small-scale quilting business. Large quantities of cotton and other flammable materials were stored inside the shanty. A sudden spark ignited the cotton stock, leading to a rapidly spreading fire. The occupants attempted to extinguish the flames initially but failed, forcing them to flee to safety.
Buses Damaged
Three school buses, contracted by a private school in Ludhiana, were parked adjacent to the shanty. Upon learning of the fire, the bus owner, Sweeti, rushed to move the vehicles. He managed to save one bus and a Nano car, but the other two buses were caught in the intensifying blaze and completely gutted.
Emergency Response
Local police and fire brigade teams arrived promptly after receiving the alert. ASI Sudarshan Singh stated, "We were informed about the fire around 3 pm. I, along with a police party, immediately reached the spot." Two fire engines were deployed, and after considerable effort, the flames were brought under control. Officials confirmed no casualties in the incident.
Investigation Ongoing
Initial investigations suggest the fire originated in the slum area and spread quickly to the buses. Authorities are probing the exact cause of the spark. The swift response prevented further damage to nearby properties.
