Guwahati, 28 July (H.S.): A devastating fire broke out at the Jama Masjid in Guwahati’s Maligaon locality on Sunday late evening, severely damaging a makeshift structure on the mosque’s rooftop.

The incident, which caused panic among residents of the crowded neighborhood, saw flames and thick smoke rising from the rooftop, according to eyewitness accounts.

Firefighters and emergency personnel swiftly reached the scene and succeeded in dousing the blaze before it could spread further. No casualties have been reported so far.

Initial findings point to a suspected short circuit as the possible cause of the fire. Authorities have begun a detailed investigation to ascertain the exact reason and estimate the full extent of the damage.

Community members and the mosque committee expressed deep concern over the incident and appealed to the administration to conduct safety inspections of public and religious buildings in the vicinity.

In the aftermath, fire service officials have urged immediate checks of electrical systems in surrounding structures to avoid recurrence of such mishaps.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash