Pettah Fire Extinguished After 12-hour Operation

COLOMBO (News 1st): The fire that broke out in a building on First Cross Street in Pettah last afternoon (20th) was brought under control following a 12-hour operation.

Police said the fire, suspected to have been caused by an electrical leak, started around 4.05 p.m. on the fourth floor of an electrical appliance and mobile phone shop, before spreading to a nearby building.

More than 20 fire engines, an Air Force Bell 212 aircraft, and personnel from the Police, Navy, Air Force, and the Port Fire Brigade were deployed to contain the fire.

Police have assigned several teams to investigate the incident, with the Government Analyst and the Magistrate expected to visit the site today.

Meanwhile, acting Public Security Minister Sunil Watagala said that a special committee will be appointed to investigate the fire. He added that construction activities in Pettah will be a key focus at the next District Coordination Committee meeting.