Cuttack: A major disaster was averted after locals and firefighters swiftly responded to a fire that broke out due to an unattended aarti flame during a religious ritual at a residence in Aparna Nagar, Chauliaganj, on Wednesday evening.
According to preliminary reports, the tenant was performing aarti in a bedroom that housed images of deities. The flame was left unsupervised while the occupants were distracted in conversation, allowing the fire to start and spread within the room. Alert neighbours quickly stepped in to help.
In a display of quick thinking, local youth worker Sai Sourav Jena — a friend of the house owner — arrived at the scene and used a fire extinguisher to contain the blaze and slow its spread before it could worsen. The fire brigade reached the spot shortly thereafter and fully extinguished the flames, ensuring no further damage to the property or risk to nearby residents.
Fortunately, no serious injuries or casualties were reported, though the fire caused limited damage items inside the house.
Former MLA Prabhat Ranjan Biswal visited the site soon after the incident to evaluate the damage and offer support to those affected. He spoke with the residents, assessed the situation on the ground, and arranged necessary assistance.
Authorities have appealed to residents to remain vigilant when performing fire-related rituals, stressing the importance of never leaving flames unattended, especially in indoor spaces. An investigation into the exact cause of the incident is underway.
