SRINAGAR: A newly opened Chinar Cafe in Mandi town of Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district was completely destroyed in a fire early Friday after two LPG cylinders reportedly exploded inside the closed establishment.
Officials said the incident occurred between 3 am and 4 am when the two cylinders exploded, triggering a major blaze that engulfed the cafe.
The fire reduced the eatery’s structure, furniture and other belongings to ashes. No casualties were reported as the establishment was closed when the incident occurred.
After hearing the explosions, local residents alerted the police and Fire and Emergency Services. Fire tenders reached the site and, after sustained efforts, prevented the flames from spreading to adjoining shops.
Police have taken cognisance of the incident and initiated an investigation to establish the circumstances leading to the explosions and subsequent fire.
