Massive Fire Incident Near Sri Govindarajaswamy Temple in Tirupati
The blaze, which originated in a shop on Sannidhi Street, caused significant property damage but resulted in no casualties or injuries.
TIRUPATI ( Andhra Pradesh ) – On the early morning of July 3, 2025, a massive fire broke out near the historic Sri Govindarajaswamy Temple, one of the oldest and most revered Vaishnavite temples in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh.
The blaze, which originated in a shop on Sannidhi Street, caused significant property damage but resulted in no casualties or injuries.
The incident triggered panic among devotees and local residents, marking the second major accident in the temple city this year, following a tragic stampede in January.
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The fire is believed to have been sparked by an electrical short circuit in a shop dealing in brass items or iron scrap, located near the temple entrance. The flames rapidly spread to adjoining shops and temporary structures, including pandals (canopies made of dried coconut fronds) set up for ongoing temple activities.
Thick smoke and towering flames engulfed the area, creating chaotic scenes as devotees staying in nearby lodges evacuated in panic.
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Two shops and a shed were completely gutted, and a portion of the temple’s canopy structure sustained partial damage.
Preliminary investigations by local authorities point to a short circuit as the primary cause, though a detailed probe is underway to ascertain the exact circumstances.
The fire’s rapid spread was likely exacerbated by the presence of inflammable materials such as plywood, cardboard, and other items stored in the shops.
Local residents promptly alerted the police and fire department, enabling a swift response. Two to three fire engines, supported by firefighters from the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) and municipal services, were deployed to the scene.
Firefighting operations, which faced challenges due to heavy smoke, successfully brought the blaze under control within approximately one hour. No devotees were present in the temple premises at the time, averting a potential tragedy. The temple itself, including its sacred chariot, remained undamaged, as confirmed by TTD officials.Impact
Significant damage was reported, with two shops and a shed completely destroyed. Temporary pandals and material stalls near the temple entrance were also gutted, causing substantial financial losses to shop owners.
No injuries or casualties were reported, as devotees safely evacuated the area. The early morning timing of the incident meant fewer people were present near the temple.
The Sri Govindarajaswamy Temple, administered by the TTD, continued its operations without disruption, though the incident heightened concerns about safety protocols in the vicinity.
