A major fire broke out in Lower Ahobilam, a famous pilgrimage site in Allagadda mandal of Nandyal district. Six shops were completely gutted in the incident that took place after midnight on Sunday. The incident took place on the way to the Bigala Anjaneyaswamy temple opposite the main temple.

It is believed that the fire broke out due to an electrical short circuit. Three toy shops, a soft drink shop and two hotels were completely gutted in the incident. According to the victims, the property damage is estimated to be over Rs. 50 lakh.

Immediately after receiving the information, the police reached the spot and took up rescue operations. Locals said that a major accident was averted as the gas cylinders in nearby hotels were evacuated in time. Full details of the incident are yet to be known.