Sambalpur: A huge quantity of PVC pipes was destroyed in a massive fire that broke out at a warehouse in Gunderpur area of Odisha’s Sambalpur district on Monday.

Sources said the fire erupted at the pipe godown located at Gunderpur under Maneshwar tehsil of the district. As soon as the fire together with thick smoke billowing out of the warehouse was noticed, the fire services personnel were informed.

After getting information, fire services personnel rushed to the site and launched an operation to extinguish the blaze. The firefighters, equipped with sophisticated equipment had a tough time controlling the flames. Thick black smoke emanating from the godown along with a pungent odour engulfed the antire area, creating panic among locals.

A huge stock of PVC pipes and plastic materials stored in the warehouse were destroyed by the time the fire could be brought under control. The extent of damage is yet to be ascertained.

While an electric short circuit is suspected to have triggered the fire, the exact cause is yet to be ascertained.