Silchar: A massive fire broke out at a govt textbook warehouse inside the education complex in Hailakandi district on Thursday afternoon, destroying large quantities of textbooks and educational supplies stored for distribution under the Samagra Shiksha programme.The blaze erupted at the warehouse between 1pm and 1.30pm, sending thick plumes of black smoke billowing across the area and triggering panic among local residents.According to officials, the fire spread rapidly inside the sealed godown, making it difficult for firefighters to gain direct access to the source of the flames. Four fire tenders were rushed to the spot, while personnel from the SDRF were later pressed into service to assist in the operation.In a dramatic rescue effort, authorities deployed two excavators to break through portions of the concrete structure after repeated attempts to control the blaze from outside failed. Hundreds of residents gathered outside the complex as the excavators smashed sections of the warehouse wall, allowing firefighters to enter and spray water directly into the burning interior.After several hours of firefighting, the blaze was brought largely under control.Preliminary investigation suggests the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit. Officials from the education department said the warehouse contained thousands of government-issued textbooks, sanitary napkins and other educational materials, which may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.Authorities said the exact extent of the damage is yet to be assessed, though losses are expected to be substantial. Officials added the timely intervention of fire and SDRF personnel helped prevent the flames from spreading to nearby sections of the education complex.
