Thu Jul 03 05:03:00 UTC 2025: ## Summary:
A fire broke out in the early hours of July 3, 2025, in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, near the Sri Govindaraja Swamy temple. The fire, reportedly caused by a short circuit in a shop, quickly spread to the coconut frond canopy erected for shade. Firefighters extinguished the blaze within an hour, but not before it engulfed two shops selling souvenirs and photo frames. The extent of the property damage is still being assessed.
## News Article:
**Fire Engulfs Shops Near Tirupati Temple**
**TIRUPATI, Andhra Pradesh – July 3, 2025** – A fire ripped through two shops near the Sri Govindaraja Swamy temple in Tirupati this morning, prompting a swift response from local firefighters. The blaze, which started around dawn on Sannidhi Street, is believed to have been triggered by a short circuit in one of the retail outlets.
The fire rapidly spread to the “pandal,” a canopy made of dried coconut fronds intended to provide shade for pilgrims visiting the temple. The canopy’s dry material fueled the flames, making the situation challenging for responders.
Three fire tenders were dispatched to the scene and managed to bring the fire under control within approximately one hour. Smoke hampered the efforts of the firefighters. The shops, primarily selling mementos and photo frames, were significantly damaged. Fortunately, the area is primarily commercial, and no residential buildings were immediately threatened.
Officials are currently assessing the total extent of the property damage. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which maintains the temple, has yet to release a statement.
First Piper 