Fire breaks out at shopping mall in Panipat

A major fire broke out at Mittal Mega Mall in Sector 25 here late Saturday night, gutting several showrooms before being brought under control in the early hours of Sunday.

As many as 12 fire engines were pressed into service, and it took nearly five hours to douse the flames. No loss of life has been reported.

As per the available information, the fire began around 10 pm in a showroom located in the basement of the mall. It quickly spread and engulfed other parts of the building, reaching the ground and first floors.

Panic gripped the mall as people ran towards emergency exits. Police and fire brigade teams, with the help of security guards, evacuated the building.

Officials suspect that around eight showrooms dealing in garments and footwear were damaged in the fire.

Amit Kumar, a leading fireman, said the fire spread through flex banners used for advertisement in the mall, and took a huge shape due to winds in the night.

While there were no casualties, losses to some showrooms have been reported, officials said.