A sudden fire broke out in a textile factory located in the first phase industrial area of Balotra city. The incident took place at HK Industries, where the flames quickly rose towards the sky, engulfing the entire area in thick clouds of smoke. The fire was so fierce that its flames were visible even from a distance.
According to the information, smoke started coming out from the textile printing machine in the factory at around 4 pm. Within a few minutes, the fire engulfed the entire machinery and the rolls of cloth kept around it. Frightened, the employees present on the spot ran outside and immediately informed the fire department.
On receiving the information, CETP (Common Effluent Treatment Plant) fire brigade and Municipal Council fire brigade reached the spot. About three-four fire engines together started the rescue operation. Firefighters brought the fire under control after about two hours of hard work. Local residents also helped extinguish the fire with water tanks and pipes.
The fire has caused huge damage to the factory premises. According to the factory manager, machinery, readymade clothes, chemicals and other materials were destroyed in the fire, causing a loss worth lakhs of rupees. Right now the exact loss is being assessed.
After the incident, police reached the spot and inspected the entire site. Preliminary investigation has suggested that the fire might have been caused by a short circuit. However, police and fire department teams are investigating the exact cause.
Fire department officials said that after receiving timely information, the fire was brought under control, which could have engulfed other nearby factories as well. A major accident was averted due to the prompt action of fire fighters and local youth.
The fire in the factory has spread panic in the entire industrial area. Many traders and factory owners have reached the spot to take stock of the situation. The movement of trucks and vehicles was also disrupted for some time.
