Krishnagiri: A fire broke out in the kitchen of the Periyar Goundanur panchayat union primary school near Uthangarai in Krishnagiri district on Thursday. However, all students were moved to safety promptly and the fire put out.Police said the fire broke out after a cooking gas cylinder developed a leak, which led to flames inside the school kitchen. Fire and rescue services staff secured the leaking cylinder and put out the fire, limiting the damage.The school, which has 26 students studying in Classes I to V, was functioning as usual when the incident took place. “Teachers responded quickly and moved all the children to a safe place before the fire could spread further,” said a police officer from Uthangarai station.Parents reacted with a mix of relief and worry following the incident. “We are thankful that our children were saved in time. But the safety of school kitchens must be taken seriously,” said a father who was anxiously waiting outside the school. Another mother said, “The government should ensure proper maintenance of cylinders and kitchens. We cannot risk children’s lives.”(Photo: AM Shudhagar)
