A major fire erupted in the heart of Chennai on a late Sunday night, sending plumes of smoke into the sky and causing panic among residents. The blaze originated in an old warehouse used for storing scrap materials on First Avenue in the O Block of Anna Nagar.
Firefighters Battle Intense Blaze
The fire, which started late on Sunday night, found ample fuel in the highly flammable scrap materials stored inside the warehouse. This caused it to spread rapidly, intensifying the situation. Alert locals were the first to notice the dangerous flames and immediately informed the fire and rescue services.
In response, a large contingent of firefighters was dispatched to the spot. Teams rushed from the Koyambedu, Anna Nagar, Thirumangalam, and Villivakkam fire stations, along with personnel from other nearby stations. A total of five fire engines were deployed to combat the raging fire and prevent it from spreading to adjacent structures.
Chaos and Scorching Heat on the Streets
The incident caused significant disruption in the locality. Frightened residents rushed out of their homes, leading to a chaotic scene on the roads. The sudden influx of people and emergency vehicles brought movement to a complete standstill. Compounding the distress was the prevailing scorching heat wave, which made the already tense situation more uncomfortable for everyone at the scene.
Investigation into the Cause Launched
Following the efforts to douse the flames, the Anna Nagar police have initiated a formal investigation into the incident. Officials are working to determine the exact origin of the fire. The probe is currently examining two primary angles: whether the disaster was triggered by an electrical short circuit or if it was an act of sabotage. Authorities are meticulously gathering evidence from the site to reach a conclusive finding.
While the fire caused substantial damage to the warehouse property, there have been no immediate reports of serious injuries or casualties, thanks to the swift action of the fire department and the alertness of local residents. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of storing combustible materials in densely populated urban areas.
