Cashew factory gutted in major fire mishap on Diwali night in Odisha's Gajapati

A major fire broke out at a cashew factory in Labanyagada under Gosani block of Gajapati district in Odisha on Monday night, completely reducing the facility to ashes. The incident occurred during Diwali celebrations when the blaze spread rapidly, leaving the entire factory gutted.

According to reports, the fire erupted late at night and quickly intensified due to the presence of dry cashew skins, which fuelled the flames. The Paralakhemundi Fire Department team rushed to the spot and made continuous efforts to bring the situation under control. 

However, the fire was so severe that personnel were unable to enter the structure to douse the flames. A portion of the wall was later torn down to facilitate firefighting operations.

Villagers Alert Authorities

Local villagers reportedly noticed the fire and informed the Paralakhemundi Fire Services Department around midnight. 

Following the alert, fire personnel reached the scene and managed to bring down the intensity of the blaze, though it had not been completely extinguished at the time of reporting.

No Casualties Reported

No reports have emerged of any factory employees or workers being present during the mishap. The factory owner and local police later reached the site to assess the situation. Officials stated that the total extent of property damage and loss will be determined once the fire is fully doused.

Initial suspicions suggest that the blaze may have been triggered by a short circuit, though the exact cause is yet to be ascertained.