A fire broke out on Saturday afternoon around 1:45 PM in the computer science lab of GIET University, located in Gunupur, Rayagada district.
The blaze caused extensive damage to infrastructure and property, estimated to be worth over ₹1 crore.
Although the exact cause of the fire remains unknown, preliminary reports suggest a short circuit may have been responsible. The five-story building, housing the department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE), suffered significant losses as the fire engulfed 14 computer systems, tables, chairs, and the ceiling of the server room.
University Dean Dr. N.V.J. Rao confirmed the incident and stated that no casualties had been reported. However, the fire forced an abrupt halt to the ongoing Odisha Joint Entrance Examination (OJEE), affecting hundreds of students. At the time of the fire, the exam had only 40 minutes remaining, leading authorities to suspend the second shift as well.
Upon receiving information, Gunupur fire services swiftly responded, with officer Rajanikant Gouda and his team successfully extinguishing the flames. Officials have initiated an assessment to evaluate the extent of losses suffered in the incident.
Authorities have assured students that alternative arrangements will be made for the disrupted examination while investigations into the cause of the fire continue.
