Fire breaks out at bank branch in Sirsa, major damage reported

A major fire broke out on Tuesday morning at the main Axis Bank branch near Sangwan Chowk in Sirsa. The fire was first noticed by a private mall’s security guard who saw smoke coming out of the bank building. He quickly informed the Fire Department, but the fire brigade arrived about 30 minutes later.

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By the time they reached, the flames had already spread inside the bank. Computers, electric equipment, chairs, tables and important documents were destroyed in the fire.

The exact cause of the fire is still unknown, but it is suspected that a short circuit may have triggered it. It is yet to be confirmed if the cash stored in the bank is safe. Bank officials will give more information after inspection.

Jagjivan Singh, a security guard at a nearby showroom, said he heard the fire alarm around 5 am. When he came outside, he saw smoke and heard crackling sounds. He informed the city police and helped alert the Fire Department. He also mentioned that no security staff was seen at the bank at that time.

Another eyewitness, Pawan Kumar, who was at the chowk for tea, said the bank’s smoke alarm had been ringing for a while before anyone noticed the fire. Luckily, the power supply had also been cut off around the same time, which may have prevented further damage.

A firefighter said they had to break open the bank’s shutter as it was locked when they arrived. It took them 15 to 20 minutes to bring the fire under control.

Authorities are now assessing the full extent of the damage. An investigation is underway.