Millions Lost as Hazaribagh Businesses Go Up in Flames

A devastating fire in Hazaribagh’s Deepugada locality has led to the complete loss of a restaurant and a clothing store in a single building. The Park View Restaurant & Banquet Hall and the neighboring clothing shop were engulfed by flames late Wednesday night, resulting in extensive property damage estimated to be in the millions. The fire spread with alarming speed, engulfing both businesses in a short period. Although the inferno reached a nearby medical shop, swift local intervention and the efforts of the fire department prevented catastrophic damage there. The genesis of the fire is currently unknown, though authorities are exploring the possibility of a short circuit. Speaking about the incident, restaurant owner Vikas Yadav and clothing store owner Ajit Kumar Mehta indicated their combined financial loss could be as high as 80 to 90 lakh rupees. Mr. Yadav, who was resting downstairs, was awakened by smoke and immediately alerted others before calling the fire brigade. Fire crews from Hazaribagh arrived swiftly and spent three to four hours battling the intense blaze before subduing it. Their quick thinking in removing gas cylinders from the restaurant also prevented a potential explosion. The aftermath saw considerable chaos, which was managed by the police. Firefighting operations have concluded, and a detailed inquiry into the incident has commenced. Thankfully, there have been no reports of injuries.