A significant fire incident occurred at the Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited office located on Anna Salai in Chennai, prompting immediate concern among local residents and authorities. The blaze, which originated on the second floor of the building, was first detected around 9:30 a.m. when security personnel observed thick smoke emanating from the premises. This event unfolded in one of the city's busiest commercial districts, heightening the potential for broader implications.
Initial reports indicate that the fire rapidly spread, damaging various electrical appliances and infrastructure within the office. Eyewitnesses described scenes of alarm as employees and passersby evacuated the area to ensure safety. The incident disrupted critical telecommunications services, including internet and telephone connections in the surrounding vicinity, affecting numerous users reliant on BSNL's network.
Fire and rescue services were swiftly dispatched to the site, where teams worked diligently to contain the flames and prevent further escalation. Multiple fire engines arrived promptly, and personnel employed advanced firefighting techniques to subdue the blaze. Officials confirmed that the operation was conducted efficiently, with no reported casualties or injuries among staff or the public.
Also Read: Fire Erupts on 28th Floor of Gokul Concorde, Mumbai; No Casualties
The disruption extended to traffic along Anna Salai, as emergency vehicles and cordons led to temporary congestion in the high-traffic corridor. BSNL representatives have acknowledged the impact on services and stated that restoration efforts are underway to minimize downtime for affected customers. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, with preliminary assessments pointing toward possible electrical faults, though no definitive conclusions have been reached.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of fire safety protocols in commercial buildings, particularly those handling essential public services. As the situation stabilizes, further updates are anticipated from BSNL and local officials regarding full service recovery and preventive measures to avert similar occurrences in the future
Also Read: Hong Kong High-Rise Blaze Kills Four; Bamboo Scaffolding Fuels Rapid Spread