Bhubaneswar, 15 October (H.S.): A devastating fire broke out late Tuesday night at a stationery shop located on College Road in Balasore town, completely gutting goods and property valued at over ₹1 crore.

Eyewitnesses reported that thick smoke and towering flames quickly engulfed the shop, triggering panic among nearby residents. Firefighters rushed to the scene and battled the blaze for several hours before finally bringing it under control.

Although the exact cause of the fire remains unknown, preliminary reports indicate extensive damage to stock and infrastructure. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries have been reported.

Fire department officials have initiated an investigation to ascertain the cause of the incident and assess the total extent of the losses.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda