Kozhikode: A massive fire at Jayalakshmi Silks, a prominent textile shop in Palayam, Kozhikode, has resulted in damages estimated to be in crores of rupees. Clothes specifically stocked in the godown for the upcoming Ramadan-Eid market were completely engulfed and destroyed by the blaze. Preliminary assessments indicate that the financial impact of this incident is double the losses incurred during a similar fire at the same establishment three years ago, which took place in April 2023.
The inferno erupted on Tuesday evening around 6:10 PM, quickly spreading to the upper floors of the four-story building. Employees reported that smoke was first observed emanating from the godown. The fire subsequently consumed the second, third, and fourth floors of the showroom. Although five fire engines were promptly dispatched to the scene, the intensity of the blaze necessitated the deployment of advanced fire engines from Karipur Airport. After hours of relentless effort, the fire department successfully brought the situation under control.
As the fire occurred during the crucial pre-Eid season, a substantial quantity of garments had been stored in the godown, all of which fell victim to the flames. This marks the second major fire incident at the showroom, following a short-circuit-induced blaze in April 2023. Reports suggest that the current losses far exceed the crores lost in the previous occurrence.
Fortunately, the immediate activation of the fire alarm played a crucial role in expediting rescue operations. Employees, mindful of the prior incident, swiftly evacuated all customers and staff from the premises, preventing any injuries. This timely action averted what could have been a much larger catastrophe. While the fire has been fully extinguished, safety inspections are currently underway within the textile shop to assess the structural integrity and ensure no lingering hazards remain.