Vijayawada, July 12 (HS): At least seven buses were gutted in a major fire that broke out at a mechanic shed in Auto Nagar area of Vijayawada on Sunday. No casualties were reported, officials said.

According to preliminary information, the blaze erupted in one of the buses parked for repairs and rapidly spread to other vehicles in the garage, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky and triggering panic among local residents.

On receiving the information, fire and emergency services personnel rushed to the spot and launched firefighting operations. Three fire tenders were pressed into service and succeeded in bringing the flames under control after sustained efforts.

Officials said seven buses parked at the shed were completely destroyed in the fire. The exact cause of the blaze is yet to be ascertained.

An investigation has been initiated to determine the cause of the incident and assess the extent of the damage.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar