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Jaipur, Oct 31 (IANS) A massive fire broke out late Thursday night at a resort near the world-famous Sam Sand Dunes, which spread rapidly due to strong desert winds. Within a few minutes, half a dozen luxury tents were completely burnt to ashes, causing panic among tourists and local people. There were no casualties.
Many domestic and foreign tourists were staying in the resort at the time of the incident. However, due to the prompt response of the staff, all guests were evacuated safely and there were no injuries.
On receiving the information, the police station in-charge reached the spot with his team. The fire was brought under control after about an hour of effort with the help of local residents and resort staff. During this time, furniture, electronic equipment and other items inside the tent were completely destroyed.
Eyewitnesses said strong night winds in the desert made it difficult to control the flames, which quickly spread throughout the camping area.
Local people used water tankers, sand and other available resources to control the fire before the fire brigade arrived.
According to police sources, a cultural program was going on in the resort when the fire broke out. Tourists were attending folk music and dance performances in the open courtyard, which helped prevent a major tragedy, as most guests were outside their tents at the time.
Five tents were completely burnt, while two to three others were partially damaged.
Preliminary investigation suggests that the fire was probably caused by a short circuit, although the exact cause has not been confirmed yet. More information is awaited.
The police called in the FSL team for further investigation and the assessment of the total loss is currently underway.
The incident is a reminder of the fire safety challenges facing the approximately 150 resorts and camps operating in the Sam Sand Dunes area.
–IANS
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