Cuttack, Oct 13 (UDN): A fire broke out in a GAIL gas pipeline in CDA Sector 10 of Cuttack on Tuesday morning, gutting a roadside eatery and leaving two people with minor injuries.

 Representational Image

The incident occurred while the newly laid pipeline, intended to supply gas to households in the area, was reportedly undergoing testing. According to preliminary reports, the pipeline had been laid on Monday night, and the fire erupted during the testing process.

Two fire tenders were rushed to the spot to contain the blaze. Fire service personnel launched firefighting operations, while the affected area was barricaded to keep people away from the damaged pipeline and prevent further risks.

Roadside Eatery Reduced to Ashes

The fire spread to a nearby roadside eatery, completely destroying the establishment. Two people who were reportedly eating there at the time sustained minor injuries.

The incident triggered concern among local residents, as flames from a gas pipeline can pose a serious safety risk. Authorities restricted public movement around the site as emergency personnel worked to bring the situation under control.

Earlier Pipeline Incident Raises Safety Concerns

The latest fire has renewed concerns over gas pipeline safety in Cuttack’s CDA area. An earlier incident involving a GAIL pipeline reportedly caused gas to shoot high into the air, triggering panic among residents. No fire was reported in that incident.

The cause of Tuesday’s fire and the circumstances surrounding the pipeline testing were not immediately clear. Further details regarding the injured persons and any official response from GAIL were awaited.

The incident has underscored the need for stringent safety measures during pipeline installation and testing, particularly in areas close to roadside businesses and public movement.