Major Fire Incident in Kozhikode Destroys 26 Motorcycles and Damages Veterinary Hospital
A significant fire broke out at a motorcycle workshop in the Cherumukku area of Kozhikode during the early hours of Sunday, resulting in the complete destruction of twenty-six bikes and causing substantial damage to a nearby veterinary hospital. The incident occurred at Fly Wheels, a workshop owned by Neelangath Niyas, located near GMLP School.
Timeline and Immediate Response to the Blaze
The fire erupted around 1:30 AM on Sunday, with workshop staff having reportedly worked until 12:30 AM on Saturday night just before the incident. Tamil Nadu natives residing on the upper floor of the building were alerted by a loud noise and rushed out to discover that a fuel tank of a motorcycle parked outside the workshop had burst, likely igniting the blaze.
Local residents promptly informed the nearby Venniyur electricity section office, leading to the swift disconnection of the main power line to prevent further hazards. Fire and rescue units from Tanur and Tirur were dispatched to the scene and managed to bring the fire under control after intense efforts.
Extent of Damage and Financial Impact
The fire not only gutted the twenty-six motorcycles at the workshop but also spread to the adjacent Nannambra veterinary hospital, causing estimated damages of Rs 2 lakh. Officials reported that the hospital suffered severe losses, including the destruction of several crucial records:
- Thirty-one years of record books and register files
- Furniture and medical supplies
- Medicines purchased using panchayat funds for the 2025–26 fiscal year
This loss of historical data and essential resources poses a significant setback for the veterinary facility's operations and community services.
Aftermath and Official Actions
Following the incident, workshop owner Neelangath Niyas filed a formal complaint with the Tanur police to initiate an investigation into the cause of the fire. Authorities are examining factors such as electrical faults or potential negligence, though no injuries or casualties have been reported among residents or staff.
The rapid response from local communities and emergency services helped mitigate further spread, but the event highlights ongoing fire safety concerns in commercial and residential areas of Kozhikode. Officials are urging property owners to enhance preventive measures, including regular electrical inspections and proper storage of flammable materials.