Kannur: A massive fire broke out in a shopping complex near the Taliparamba private bus stand here on Thursday evening. According to Manorama News, the blaze from a toys shop quickly spread to nearby shops. No casualties have been reported so far. However, around 10 shops completely gutted in the fire.

The district fire officer told the media that eight fire engines are currently deployed here. 

“We are trying to control the flames from spreading to more shops. Fire force personnel reached the spot immediately after receiving the phone call. Fire is almost under control,” he said.

Police have been trying to evacuate the people from the area as firefighters continue their mission. In visuals aired on news channels, the three-storey building — identified as KV Complex — was seen engulfed in flames. Around 50 shops including stationary, books store, supermarket and jewellery are operating in the complex.

Though two units of the Fire and Rescue Services reached the spot immediately, they failed to bring the fire under control. Eyewitnesses alleged that the firefighters ran short of water while attempting to douse the blaze. Currently, five units of fire force are trying to douse the fire. Another unit from Payyannur fire station will join the mission with advanced equipment. People are also engaged in the mission by pumping water. 

People expressed concern that the fire could soon spread to the nearby market. Shopkeepers also complained that neither the police nor the district authorities had taken prompt action to deploy additional fire units.

The fire reportedly broke out around 5.30 pm. Following the incident, traffic restrictions were imposed on the National Highway close to the bus stand.

Taliparamba municipal chairperson Murshida Kongayi told Manorama News that the fire force unit from Payyannur will reach the spot soon. According to her, the fire is suspected to have broken out from the nearby transformer. However, another person told Manorama News that a short circuit in the Air Conditioner of one of the shops led to the fire.  

Rural SP Anuj Palliwal reached the spot to monitor the rescue operations. More water is being taken to the spot in tanker lorries.