Large-Scale Fire Breaks Out At Footwear Factory In Malappuram

Malappuram: A major fire broke out at a footwear manufacturing unit in Aravankara here on Friday, causing extensive damage to the facility, fire and rescue service officials said.

According to officials at the Malappuram Fire and Rescue Service station, a distress call was received around 11.50 am, following which firefighting teams were rushed to the spot. By the time personnel arrived, the blaze had spread rapidly across the factory premises.

The fire destroyed nearly 80 per cent of the manufacturing unit, including the raw material storage area and the godown, officials said. Thick smoke and intense flames made firefighting operations challenging in the initial stages.

More than 10 fire tenders from Malappuram, Thirur, Ponnani, Perinthalmanna, Manjeri and Meenchantha fire stations were deployed to contain the fire. Given the severity of the blaze, firefighters also took precautionary measures to prevent it from spreading to nearby residential areas.

After several hours of sustained effort, around 90 per cent of the fire was brought under control by about 3 pm. Cooling operations continued to prevent any flare-ups.

Fire force personnel suspect that an electrical short circuit may have triggered the fire. However, the exact cause will be confirmed only after a detailed inspection by the electrical inspectorate and police, officials said. No injuries were reported in the incident.