Belthangady: Grocery store gutted in fire mishap

Mangalore Today News Network

Belthangady, Aug. 21, 2026: A grocery store was completely destroyed in a fire reportedly caused by a short circuit at Bendrala in Thotathady village under Charmadi Gram Panchayat limits late on Wednesday night.

The fire suddenly broke out at the grocery store owned by Sharif, a resident of Bendrala. As the flames rapidly spread through the shop and the building, local residents rushed to the spot and joined efforts to bring the blaze under control.

Their timely intervention prevented the fire from spreading further. However, the intense blaze reduced the entire stock of grocery items, the building, and around Rs 1 lakh in cash to ashes. The total loss is estimated to exceed Rs 5 lakh.

Upon receiving information about the incident, Gram Panchayat officials visited the site and conducted an inspection. Authorities suspect that the fire may have been triggered by a short circuit, and further investigation is underway.