Thiruvananthapuram: Four shops were completely gutted in a fire at Kizhakkekotta here on Tuesday. Two shops were partially destroyed.

The fire broke out in a wayside tea shop in the busy East Fort bus station area after a gas cylinder blast.

Ten Fire and Rescue units deployed to the site have managed to completely douse the fire. Several fire engines from Pettah and Chali stations were rushed to the spot and were used in the efforts to put out the blaze.

The authorities also evacuated people from the site. 

Transport Minister Antony Raju and Education Minister V Sivankutty also visited the area to oversee the rescue operations here.

The timely intervention of local people, head load workers and Kerala Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) employees, who were present there, along with Fire Force and police personnel helped to bring the fire under control and avert a massive tragedy, Transport Minister Antony Raju said.

He also said major damage was prevented as the flames were doused quickly, but the details would be available only later.

The District Collector will file a detailed report on the matter, V Sivankutty said.