Chandigarh: A fire broke out in a shop in Industrial Area, Phase 2, on Monday morning, gutting the entire premises comprising two partitioned units—one dealing in crockery and the other in electrical wires. Both sections of Shop No. 406-A were completely destroyed. Mayor Saurabh Joshi visited the spot.The fire and emergency services department received the call around 10am. By the time firemen reached the site, flames had engulfed the entire building, forcing them to break open the locks to begin firefighting. Five fire tenders from the Industrial Area, Sector 32 and Ramdarbar stations were deployed, making multiple rounds to fetch water and control the blaze.While the exact cause is yet to be confirmed, sources said an electrical short circuit in the wiring appears to be the likely trigger. Firemen brought the flames under control within an hour, but thick smoke had spread across the shop and adjoining area, extending the operation for nearly five hours. The fire tenders were finally withdrawn around 3pm.Sources said the shop suffered total loss, and a formal assessment will be conducted. Since the shop height is below 15 metres, no notice can be issued, but the fire department has issued advisories to similar establishments.Over two dozen firemen from multiple stations took part in the operation, which continued under the supervision of senior fire and emergency services officers until the evening.
