An attempt to light an incense burner led to Pettah fire - Police

COLOMBO (News 1st); Authorities have revealed that an electricity generator caught fire and was the cause of the massive inferno that engulfed a retail apparel store located on Second Cross Street in Pettah.

23 people were injured in the incident that took place this morning. 

A fire broke at a five-storey building housing a retail apparel store located on Second Cross Street in Pettah, at around 9:30 AM.

A total of eleven fire trucks were deployed to douse the fire.

Rescue personnel made great efforts to rescue those who were trapped inside due to the fire.

It took firefighters over two hours to contain the blaze.

The firefighters were supported by the Sri Lanka Army, Sri Lanka Air Force, and Sri Lanka Police as well. 

23 people were admitted to the Colombo National Hospital following the blaze.

Deputy Director of the Colombo National Hospital Dr. Rukshan Bellana said that they were admitted due to minor burn injuries, and respiratory issues.

19 of them are receiving in-house treatment, and they include 11 men and 8 women.

The damages caused by the fire is yet to be estimated.

Sri Lanka Police say that the fire may have broken out after an electricity generator caught fire when an attempt was made to burn coconut husks using petrol, in order to light up an incense burner.

Samples are to be delivered to the government analyst for further investigation.