Daijiworld Media Network - Bagalkot (SP)

Bagalkot, Feb 8: In a catastrophic incident which happened at Ilkal town in the district, a five storied commercial building was burnt down due to fire that was caused as a result of an electric short circuit.

The ill-fated shopping centre located at Basaveshwara Circle in Ilkal belonged to Chandrashekhar Sajjan, a local. As fire raged, eight fire tenders which were summoned from Guledgud, Kushtagi, Ilkal, Hungund and Bagalkot fought to douse the fire. They finally succeeded in their aim.

The four-storied building had 'More Supermarket' in the first floor. A total of 17 shops were rented out. They included a hardware shop, bakery, Ilkal sari store, Peter England showroom etc. The fire was so huge that all the shops were turned into ashes.

Eyewitnesses claimed thit short circuit which happened in the hardware shop located in the building ignited the fire. As per an estimate, the loss inflicted on the concerned is around Rs 20 crore. The owner is grief-stricken at the entire building has burnt down. He had dreamt of making it big when constructing this commercial building but his dreams have been shattered.

A case was registered in Ilkal town police station. Fire brigade personnel persisted with their efforts and continued their fight till the flames were extinguished finally.