Siliguri, 17th April: Fire broke out at a biryani shop near Baneswar More along the Eastern Bypass in Siliguri, allegedly due to a gas cylinder leak, creating panic in the area.
According to reports, the fire started while cooking was underway at the shop and quickly spread inside the premises. Local residents rushed to the spot and initially attempted to douse the flames.
Four gas cylinders were taken out from the shop during the incident, preventing a potentially bigger mishap. With the timely efforts of locals, the fire was brought largely under control before the arrival of the fire brigade.
Later, a fire engine reached the spot along with personnel from Ashighar Outpost and traffic police, and the fire was completely extinguished. Locals alleged that the fire brigade arrived nearly half an hour after the incident, leading to anger among residents.
No major injuries or damage were reported, though the shop suffered minor losses.