Fire Accident at a School in Kodagu Claims Student’s Life

Police and fire officials inspect Katageri Har Mandir school after the fire accident.

Madikeri: A tragic fire accident at Katageri Har Mandir school in Kodagu On Thursday morning has claimed the life of a second-grade student, Pushpak (7), a resident of Chettimani village.

The boy sustained severe burns in the incident and succumbed to his injuries. The fire prompted swift action from the Madikeri Fire Brigade and local residents, who worked to control the blaze and prevent further damage.

A tragic fire broke out around 4 a.m. on Thursday at Har Mandir School in Katakeri, Madikeri taluk.

The residential school provides free education to children from economically disadvantaged families. According to police sources, the institution has 102 students — 49 day scholars and 53 residing in the hostel. At the time of the incident, one of the hostel rooms reportedly caught fire, which quickly spread through the building.

All students and staff were promptly evacuated, but one student, Pushpak is the son of a farmer, was unable to escape and lost his life in the blaze.

Deputy Commissioner Venkat Raja, along with other officials, visited the site and assured a detailed inquiry into the incident. He stated that the school’s permissions and safety measures would be verified, and a report would be sent to the state government recommending compensation for the victim’s family. School management has also expressed their support to the bereaved family.

Initial investigations point to a possible short circuit as the cause of the fire, though an official confirmation is awaited.

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