A fire that broke out at a sawmill in Khilgaon's Taltola in the capital on Friday evening was brought under control after two hours of efforts by firefighters, officials said.

The blaze started at around 7:30 pm local time, and firefighters managed to contain it by 9:35 pm, according to Anwarul Islam Dolon, an official from the Fire Service and Civil Defence media cell.

"Initially, three units of the fire service responded, but later, a total of nine units were deployed to bring the fire under control. After containment, two additional units were withdrawn," Dolon told reporters on Friday night.

The fire reportedly spread from a sawmill to a nearby vehicle workshop, where multiple explosions were heard. 

Authorities suspect the blasts were caused by materials and equipment stored inside the workshop.

Officials said the fire spread from the sawmill to the garage, igniting several vehicles and causing gas cylinders to explode. 

The police earlier said that at least nine shops were damaged, including eight workshops. 

The fire service has yet to confirm the extent of damage or any casualties.

According to eyewitnesses, panic in the area as explosions occurred, prompting people to flee. The presence of onlookers made it difficult for firefighters to control the blaze. 

Members of the army, police, and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) assisted in firefighting efforts.

BDST: 1114 HRS, FEB 21, 2025
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