Gas leak ignites massive blaze in Kotkapura dwelling
Early Monday morning, a residence on Labbu Ram Street in Kotkapura burst into flames after a suspected gas leak. Within moments the fire intensified, and two LPG cylinders inside the home detonated, sending a thick column of smoke drifting over the neighbourhood.
Location and timeline
The house, located close to Dera Sat Kartar, first drew attention when neighbours reported dense smoke pouring from the roof. The fire grew rapidly, and shortly after, the unmistakable sound of two cylinder explosions echoed across the street.
Owner absent during the disaster
The property belongs to Shyam Lal Dhingra, who was out of town with his family in Sri Muktsar Sahib attending a relative’s funeral. Consequently, no family member was present when the blaze erupted.
Fire‑fighting response
Local fire squads responded immediately after the alarm was raised. As the flames proved too fierce for the first unit, a larger fire tender was dispatched to reinforce the effort. Firefighters battled the inferno for several minutes before finally bringing it under control.
Extent of the loss
When the fire was finally extinguished, most of the household’s contents had been reduced to ash. Furniture, kitchen utensils and personal belongings suffered severe damage. The family estimates the total loss at roughly ₹1.5 lakh to ₹2 lakh.
Official remarks and appeal for aid
Fire officer Sukhwinder Singh stated that a gas leak is the most probable cause and confirmed the explosions of the two cylinders. The Dhingra family, together with nearby residents, have appealed to the administration for financial assistance to help them rebuild.
Investigation continues
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to the leak and the subsequent fire.
