Vitla: Massive fire guts electronics shop, several nearby stores damaged

Mangalore Today News Network

Vitla, January 1, 2026: A massive fire broke out suddenly at an electronics shop located on Mangaluru Road here on Wednesday, quickly spreading to adjacent shops and reducing goods worth several lakhs of rupees to ashes.

The fire reportedly started at an electronics store owned by Santosh Kumar Kodange. Due to the presence of electronic equipment and highly inflammable materials inside the shop, the intensity of the blaze increased rapidly. Local residents attempted to douse the fire, but the flames soon went out of control.

The fire from the electronics shop spread to nearby small establishments. Reports said the flames extended up to the nearby Amit Hotel, causing severe damage to the hotel and other shops in the vicinity.

Later, the fire spread further up to Star Wines. Several shops located in between, including SB Tailoring Shop, Padil Fast Food, and other small businesses, were also gutted in the blaze. Fire tenders rushed from Bantwal, but the fire could not be brought under control immediately. Several shops were completely destroyed due to the intensity of the fire.

As soon as the incident was reported, fire engines from Bantwal rushed to the spot. However, due to the severity of the fire, the situation remains difficult to control. Firefighters, along with local residents, are making strenuous efforts to bring the blaze under control.