A devastating fire erupted at a scrap shop located near Phillaur in Jalandhar district, resulting in property damage worth approximately Rs 3 lakh and the tragic death of a pet dog. The incident occurred late Tuesday night, sending plumes of smoke and flames into the sky, which alerted nearby residents.
Details of the Incident
The fire broke out at the shop owned by local resident Raj Kumar. According to eyewitnesses, the flames spread rapidly due to the presence of highly combustible materials like plastic, rubber, and metal scraps stored in the shop. The fire department was immediately called, and two fire tenders rushed to the spot. Firefighters battled the blaze for over three hours before bringing it under control.
Casualties and Losses
Unfortunately, a pet dog tied inside the shop could not escape and died in the fire. Raj Kumar estimated the loss of goods and property at around Rs 3 lakh. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined, but preliminary investigations suggest a short circuit might have triggered the incident.
Response and Investigation
Local police and fire officials have launched an inquiry into the matter. The shop owner has been advised to file a formal complaint for insurance claims. Neighbors expressed shock and grief over the loss of the pet, which was well-known in the locality. Authorities have urged shop owners dealing with flammable materials to install fire safety equipment and avoid storing hazardous items in bulk.
