A fire broke out at New Laxmi Sweets located on Adarsh Nagar Road in Jalandhar at around 6:30 am. The fire gutted the entire shop and its goods. The cause of the fire is still not clear.
Shopkeeper’s statement and initial efforts
Shopkeeper Ankush said that a milkman was passing by and he saw smoke coming out of the shop. When he reached, the fire was very small. He immediately informed the fire brigade, and people nearby started trying to douse it.
Accusations of late arrival of the fire brigade
Ankush alleged that the fire brigade arrived half an hour late, although his office was less than a kilometer away from the shop. He initially used a fire extinguisher to douse the fire, but the fire spread further.
Local efforts and spread of fire
Ankush said that within 15-20 minutes, the fire spread rapidly, reaching the street. Even after pouring water, nearby residents were unable to control the fire.
Sunday breakfast preparations burnt to ashes
The shopkeeper said that many people come to his shop for breakfast on Sundays. He had prepared breakfast the night before. The fire turned the paneer black, and the entire flour and sweets stored inside the shop burnt.
Possible cause: Short circuit
Ankush said he does not suspect any foul play. For now, the cause of the fire is being considered as a short circuit. The electricity department was also informed, and they cut the power lines. The actual cause of the fire will be known only after an investigation.