Patna: A fire broke out at Patna Arcade Business College in Patna on Tuesday, triggering panic in the surrounding area before being brought under control by fire services.
Thick smoke billowing from the building drew a crowd of local residents, some of whom initially attempted to douse the flames before authorities arrived.
Preliminary reports suggest that the fire may have been caused by a short circuit. Officials said a spark inside the building is believed to have triggered the blaze, which spread rapidly through a section of the premises.
The incident led to a brief period of chaos as people rushed to evacuate the building.
The fire reportedly originated in a laboratory located on the upper floor of the G+2 structure. Computers and other equipment inside the lab were destroyed, along with furniture including tables and chairs.
Officials said the incident caused financial losses estimated in lakhs, though no injuries or casualties have been reported.
Three fire tenders were deployed to the site, with personnel managing to bring the blaze under control after a sustained effort.
Local residents assisted in the initial response, while authorities coordinated evacuation and firefighting operations.
The incident caused alarm in nearby neighbourhoods, with residents and shopkeepers rushing out after noticing smoke and flames.
Officials have urged the public to remain cautious, while an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the fire.
