No injuries in massive fire outbreak at Odisha Cricket Association conference hall

OCA conference hall in Cuttack. (Source:OTV)

A sudden, unfortunate fire broke out at the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) Conference Hall on Saturday afternoon, causing significant property damage but thankfully resulting in no casualties or injuries in what could have been a huge accident.

The fire was suspected to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, which erupted around 2:15 PM, sending thick plumes of smoke rising from the facility. OCA staff quickly alerted the fire department, prompting a swift response from the Buxi Bazar fire station in Cuttack.

Acting swiftly, the firefighters were able to bring the situation under control promptly, preventing the fire from spreading further, also minimizing the damage. While the flames were extinguished in a short span of time, the incident led to the destruction of essential equipment and furniture within the conference hall, severely impacting the association’s operational infrastructure.

Preliminary investigations suggest an electrical malfunction as the likely cause, though a full inquiry is currently underway to determine the exact source of the outbreak. No injuries or casualties were reported, offering relief to OCA staff and cricket followers. The association is yet to issue an official statement regarding the extent of the damage and the next steps in their recovery efforts.

“Upon being informed about the incident, a team from Cuttack Fire Station reached the spot immediately. After watching the situation, we called another team for support. The fire was controlled immediately. The heavy smoke was subsequently cleared,” said Assistant Fire Officer Sanjeeb Behera as quoted by Odisha TV.

“We are suspecting that the fire might have been triggered by an air conditioner short circuit,” he added.

The incident has raised renewed concerns over fire preparedness and infrastructural safety at sporting institutions across the state, particularly those housing sensitive electrical systems.

The Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) had earlier announced on Sunday, July 6, the launch of the Odisha Pro T20 League (OPTL), a franchise-based T20 tournament scheduled to debut in September with six participating teams. The OPTL aims to serve as a premier platform for nurturing emerging talent, offering players high-intensity competition, wider exposure, and the opportunity to showcase their skills alongside some of the sport’s finest.

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