A major fire broke out at around 5 am on Saturday in a plastic factory operating on the roof of a two-storey building next to Pappu Dhaba, near NH-30 in Karamlichak, under the jurisdiction of the Bypass police station. A plume of black smoke rising from the burning plastic materials was visible from a distance, which alerted local people to the incident.

Himanshu Raj, the owner of Pappu Dhaba, said that a plastic factory named ‘Vishwakarma Industries’ had been operating in the adjacent building for years. Chairs and other household items were manufactured here from plastic granules.

Firefighting Operations And Hydraulic Engine Deployed

Upon receiving the information, around a dozen fire engines from Patna City and Kankarbagh fire stations reached the scene and began firefighting operations. The fire had spread fiercely on the second and third floors of the factory, prompting a hydraulic fire engine to be summoned from Patna. Local residents were also seen assisting the firefighters in extinguishing the blaze.

Fire Officer Gyanand Singh, present at the scene, stated that about 80 per cent of the fire has been brought under control and efforts to completely extinguish it are ongoing.

Damage Assessment And Cause Of Fire

The flames originated on the second floor, gutting most of the factory. However, the fire spread rapidly due to the burning of plastic raw materials and finished goods present in the factory. Damage was also caused as the fire spread to the first and ground floors.

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After being informed of the incident, Sub-Divisional Officer Satyam Sahay also arrived at the scene. He stated that a preliminary investigation suggests a short circuit is the likely cause of the fire. Further action will be taken after assessing the damage once the fire is completely extinguished. Fire Officer Gyanand Singh said that a precise assessment of the damage caused by the fire can only be made after it has been fully put out.

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Workers Safe; Nearby Buildings Saved

According to local residents, about 10 to 12 workers were employed at the factory, who managed to get out safely in time. No casualties have been reported in this incident.

The Milan Family Dhaba is located next to the building where the fire broke out. Timely efforts to control the fire prevented major damage to the surrounding buildings.