Massive fire breaks out on Amaravati Seed access road; AP govt orders probe

Vijayawada: A major fire accident created panic on the Seed Access Road in Amaravati on Wednesday, as flames engulfed stacks of PVC pipelines meant for infrastructure works in the capital region. Thick smoke billowed over the area, drawing the attention of commuters and nearby residents.According to officials, the pipelines were stored at the site as part of ongoing development works to provide multiple civic amenities in the capital city. The pipes, made of costly PVC material, quickly caught fire and intensified the blaze. Seven fire engines rushed to the spot and battled the flames for several hours before bringing the situation under control.Director general of fire services Venkata Ramana confirmed that the fire was eventually contained and no casualties were reported. However, the damage to the stored materials is believed to be significant.Following the incident, the govt of Andhra Pradesh ordered an inquiry to determine the exact cause of the fire. State Home minister Vangalapudi Anitha directed officials to investigate whether the blaze was purely accidental or if any foul play was involved.Representatives from L&T, which is involved in the project, said preliminary findings suggest the fire may have started from a nearby electric pole. Dry grass around the pole reportedly caught fire and spread to the stacked pipelines.A forensic team reached the site to collect evidence and examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Eyewitnesses claimed the flames were first noticed from the Polala side, while locals raised several doubts about how the fire began.