North 24 Parganas, 21 October (H.S.): A massive fire broke out early Tuesday morning at a paint manufacturing factory in Ishwaripur area of Khardah in North 24 Parganas district. Locals saw flames and smoke rising from the factory early in the morning and alerted the fire brigade.

At least twenty fire engines arrived at the scene, and efforts are underway to control the fire. However, the intensity of the fire is making it very difficult for firefighters.

Eyewitnesses said that the fire spread very rapidly and the entire area was covered in thick black smoke. Initial estimates suggest that the factory stored chemicals, which contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. The cause of the fire is not yet known, but preliminary investigations suggest a short circuit.

Fire department officials stated that the situation is being continuously monitored and preparations are underway to call in additional vehicles if needed. There are no reports of any casualties, but the extent of damage to the factory is still unknown.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey