Gas leak ignites massive fire in a Kotkapura residence
Early Monday morning, a dwelling on Labbu Ram Street in Kotkapura burst into flames following an apparent gas leak. Within moments the fire escalated, and two LPG cylinders inside the house detonated, hurling a thick column of smoke over the surrounding area.
Location and timeline
The property, located close to Dera Sat Kartar, first drew attention when neighbors observed dense smoke pouring from the roof. The conflagration grew rapidly, and shortly thereafter the deafening blasts of two cylinders resonated from the building.
Owner absent during the disaster
The house belongs to Shyam Lal Dhingra, who was away with his family in Sri Muktsar Sahib for a relative’s funeral. Consequently, no family member was present when the fire broke out.
Fire‑fighting response
Local fire squads arrived swiftly after the alarm was raised. As the blaze proved too intense for the first engine, a larger fire tender was dispatched to bolster the operation. Firefighters wrestled with the flames for several minutes before finally gaining control.
Extent of the loss
When the fire was finally extinguished, the majority of the home’s contents had turned to ash. Furniture, kitchenware and personal belongings suffered severe damage. The family estimates the overall loss at roughly ₹1.5 lakh to ₹2 lakh.
Official remarks and appeal for aid
Fire officer Sukhwinder Singh said a gas leak is the most probable cause and confirmed the explosions of the two cylinders. The Dhingra family, together with nearby residents, have appealed to authorities for financial assistance to help reconstruct their home.
Investigation continues
Investigators have launched a probe to determine the exact circumstances that led to the leak and the subsequent fire.
