A sudden fire broke out at the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) Conference Hall on Saturday afternoon, causing significant property damage but sparing lives.
The blaze, suspected to be triggered by an electrical short circuit, erupted at around 2:15 PM, sending plumes of smoke billowing from the facility.
Acting swiftly, OCA staff alerted the fire department, prompting an immediate response from the Buxi Bazar fire station team. Firefighters brought the situation under control quickly, preventing further escalation.
While the flames were doused in a short span, the incident led to the destruction of vital equipment and furnishings within the Hall, impacting the association’s operational resources. Preliminary investigations point to an electrical malfunction as the probable cause, although a full inquiry is underway.
No injuries or casualties have been reported, bringing relief to staff and cricket enthusiasts alike. The OCA is yet to release an official statement regarding the scale of the loss and future recovery measures.
The incident raises fresh concerns around fire preparedness and infrastructural safety at sporting institutions across the state, especially those housing sensitive electrical systems.