Fire burns down 4 shanties in Joka, multiple cylinders explode

A fire broke out on Thursday afternoon in the shanties near Joka Khalpole, adjacent to Diamond Harbour Road, under Thakurpukur police station. The blaze destroyed multiple shanties, with explosions reported from gas cylinders in at least three houses. The Muchisha Auto Union office, located close to the shanties, was also severely damaged. Two fire engines were deployed, and it took nearly an hour and a half to bring the fire under control.

Eyewitnesses stated that smoke was first noticed coming from one shanty around 5:45 AM. Local residents attempted to extinguish the flames but were unsuccessful as the fire spread rapidly, fueled by the explosions. Panic spread in the area as the fire engulfed one shanty after another, leaving residents scrambling to safety and resulting in significant property loss.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the fire, but initial observations suggest it may have been triggered by a short circuit. No casualties or injuries have been reported as of now. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the fire and assess the extent of the damage caused to property and livelihoods.

Fire burns down 4 shanties in Joka, multiple cylinders explode

https://t.co/meDWAupbSM via @taazatv pic.twitter.com/9xJGXlMDJB

— Taaza TV (@taazatv) January 9, 2025