Kerala: Massive fire breaks out at textile hub near Kozhikode bus stand
Shopkeepers say the textile stores were stocked with large quantities of school uniforms, as schools are scheduled to reopen at the end of the month
A massive fire erupted near the Mofussil Bus Stand in Kozhikode city on Sunday (May 18), engulfing multiple shops.
The blaze is believed to have started around 5 pm at a textile shop on the first floor of a centrally located shopping complex. While people have been evacuated, the fire is yet to be brought under control. Over 25 fire service units are currently engaged in the operation.
It has been three hours since the fire broke out. A textile godown is at the epicentre of the blaze. Air-conditioning units in nearby commercial establishments are exploding, and firefighters are struggling to contain the flames due to the building’s complex structure.
Also read: Hyderabad blaze: How narrow entrance to building spelt doom for victims
Several fire engines could be seen attempting to control the flames, with more units, including those from Karipur airport, arriving at the scene.
Massive traffic jam, power supply cut off
Thick smoke has engulfed the entire city. A massive traffic jam is underway, and people are being advised to stay away and avoid entering the city.
Power supply to the area has been cut off as a safety measure.
A senior police officer at the site told reporters that the main priority at present was to contain the fire.
Local shopkeepers said the textile stores were stocked with large quantities of school uniforms, as schools are scheduled to reopen at the end of the month.
Also read: Textile mill fire in Maharashtra's Solapur district claims 8 lives
No proper access to building
A fire department official said there was no information yet on whether anyone had been injured in the fire. The exact cause of the fire can be determined only after the blaze is fully extinguished, he said.
Initial reports suggest that poor fire safety measures in the building led to delays in putting out the blaze. Locals say there was no proper access to enter the building and spray water.
Firefighters are now demolishing parts of the structure to make way for water hoses, using bulldozers and cranes to create an entry path.