Sambalpur: A Ganesh Puja pandal was completely gutted in a fire that broke out in the Deheripali area of Sambalpur city on Monday, triggering panic among locals.
According to eyewitnesses, smoke was first noticed coming out of the pandal, following which flames rapidly spread across the structure. The pandal, decorated with cloth, thermocol and wooden materials, was soon engulfed in flames and reduced to ashes.
On being alerted, fire personnel rushed to the spot and launched efforts to contain the blaze. Local residents also joined the efforts to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby houses and shops.
The exact cause of the fire was not immediately known. A suspected electrical short circuit is being considered as a possible cause, while the police and fire department are expected to ascertain the reason after an investigation.
