A massive fire broke out at a hotel on Mahatma Gandhi Marg in the Civil Lines area of Prayagraj on Monday, destroying property worth crores of rupees. Twelve people were rescued from the building by joint teams of the fire department, police, and administration.
Fire Started Due to Transformer Explosion
According to initial investigations, the fire originated from a transformer belonging to the electricity department located near the hotel. During routine repair work, the transformer exploded with a loud bang. The flames quickly spread from the transformer to the hotel's fourth and top floors. The hotel management had earlier informed the electricity department about a fault in the transformer, following which employees arrived for repairs. DK Pandey stated, "During the repair process, a sudden and massive explosion occurred. The hotel management immediately called 112 to alert the police."
Rescue Operation and Challenges
At least four fire brigade tenders rushed to the spot after receiving the alert. Firefighters faced intense heat and strong winds, making it difficult to contain the blaze. After nearly three hours of continuous efforts, the fire was brought under control. The joint teams successfully rescued 12 people, including hotel staff, who had been trapped inside the building.
Damage and Safety
The fire damaged the facade lighting, a newly constructed banquet hall, a storeroom, and a portion of the central office. However, all guests, along with their belongings and baggage, remained safe. SHO Civil Lines, Ramashraya Yadav, confirmed that no casualties were reported and that a joint investigation is underway.
Panic in the Locality
The incident, located next to the famous Coffee House, caused chaos and panic across the entire locality. The fire was finally brought under control after two hours of continuous efforts by the joint teams.
