Hyderabad: Two furniture shops were completely gutted in a fire near Medchal checkpost in the early hours of Sunday. No casualties were reported.The blaze broke out around 1.22 am, sending thick smoke across the area and prompting residents to alert the fire department and police. A fire engine was rushed to the spot, and firefighters brought the flames under control within 10 minutes.According to Shamirpet station fire officer (SFO) Shiva Prasad, the fire started in one of the makeshift shops and quickly spread to an adjacent furniture shop. Wooden furniture, including almirahs, and foam materials were destroyed in the blaze.“Four to five shops were located in the area, but two adjacent shops were completely gutted,” Shiva Prasad said. He added that the shops were unauthorised makeshift structures.Officials said the exact cause would be known only after the inquiry is completed. The SFO said a wiring fault, careless smoking or an open flame could have triggered the blaze. A short circuit is also among the suspected causes.The owners estimated the property damage at around Rs 20 lakh. Police have launched an investigation and are examining the circumstances surrounding the fire.
