KOZHIKODE: Loss of crores of rupees have been estimated in the fire at Jayalakshmi Silks showroom in Kozhikode. The fire broke out around 6 am on Saturday and two cars which were parked outside were also damaged. The cars caught fire when the flex boards around the upper storey melted and dropped over it. A major tragedy was averted through timely intervention of the fire force.

A petrol bunk and several commercial shops are near the textile showroom. The fire was extinguished after three hours of effort by 20 fire force units.

The shop had stored a huge stock ahead of Vishu and Ramzan celebrations.

Security staff at the showroom first spotted the fire and smoke rising from the top floor of the three-storey building. They tried to douse the fire and informed the fire force. Fire force officers were initially unable to enter the showroom due to huge flames and smoke inside the building. The fire was brought under control after pumping water to the top floor for an hour. The stock on the second floor were completely burnt.

The initial conclusion is that short circuit is the reason. District Fire Officer KM Ashraf Ali said that an investigation is underway. Corporation Mayor Beena Philip, Deputy Collector E Anitha Kumari, Regional Fire Officer Rajish T and CP Baburaj visited the spot.

But Mayor Beena Philip who visited the spot alleged mystery behind the fire. But officials of Jayalakshmi Silks dismissed the Mayor's allegation. Manager Ajesh K said that the shop was closed after making sure that no one was inside and all the main switches of the showroom were switched off. They also demanded an enquiry to find out the cause of fire.