Two ATM machines were gutted in a fire that broke out at the vegetable market in Jogipet town during the early hours of Friday, triggering panic in the surrounding residential area.
Locals were alerted by the ATMs’ security alarm and noticed flames engulfing the machines. They immediately informed the Fire Department, following which firefighters rushed to the spot with a fire tender. However, by the time the blaze was brought under control, both ATMs had been almost completely
gutted.
Officials of the respective banks were inspecting the machines to ascertain whether the cash stored inside remained intact.
Meanwhile, police launched an investigation and examined CCTV footage to determine the cause of the fire.
The incident created panic among nearby residents, who woke up from their sleep and attempted to douse the flames, fearing that the fire would spread to their houses.
The extent of the property loss is being assessed.