A major fire was reported at the District Social Welfare Office located in Chhatrapur on Saturday morning. Office computers, printers, and important documents were completely burnt to ashes in the fire mishap.
The fire services department personnel rushed to the spot and brought the flames under control. The incident occurred around 8 am when a journalist passing by noticed smoke coming out of the DSOW office in Chhatrapur, Ganjam, and suspected a fire.
Delay in Response and MLA Intervention
Following the incident, the fire department was alerted, and immediately the firefighters reached the spot to douse the flames. However, though repeated phone calls were made to the District Social Welfare Officer, she did not answer.
As the office was locked, there was a delay in extinguishing the fire. The Chhatrapur MLA later reached the spot and informed the fire services department, which then managed to break down the door and enter the premises to control the blaze.
Massive Loss of Property
The possible cause of the fire is suspected to be a short circuit. Reports indicate that one of the computers may have developed a short circuit, which then spread to other systems, sparking the blaze.
Nearly 10 computers were burnt completely, along with several important appliances like printers. The extent of the damage is significant as all crucial documents, papers, and equipment were gutted in the mishap. It was also reported that no security guard or night watchman was deployed at the office.