T’puram: A furniture godown near Plamood Junction on the Pattom-Marappalam Road was gutted in a fire on Sunday morning, with the blaze spreading to an adjoining building where people were residing. The occupants were evacuated on time, preventing any casualties, fire and rescue officials said.The fire was noticed after employees staying in the staff quarters of a restaurant nearby noticed fumes coming out of the godown, located behind the furniture shop. An initial attempt was made to douse the flames with water, but the fire quickly intensified, prompting the employees to alert the fire and rescue services.Four fire tenders were rushed to the spot, and the fire was brought under control by 12.30pm.The godown stored mattresses, cushions, rexine, upholstery materials, beds and other furniture, most of which were destroyed in the blaze.The fire also spread to a neighbouring building where people were staying. They were evacuated promptly after the blaze was noticed, officials said.The furniture shop remained closed as it was Sunday.Shopowner Joy alleged that the fire could have been caused by sabotage by business rivals. He said similar incidents had occurred at the godown three times earlier. He also claimed that he had filed a complaint with the chief minister after the previous incidents.However, fire and rescue services officials said the exact cause would be known only after a detailed examination.The incident caused concern among residents in the densely built-up area as the godown contained large quantities of highly flammable materials.
