A massive fire broke out on Wednesday at a paint and oil godown at Kuduregere in Madanayakanahalli where 10 tonnes of oil in barrels had been stored.

The godown’s compound is adjacent to the landmark Bangalore International Exhibition Centre on Nelamangala highway. As the fire raged, panic spread among residents in neighbouring localities. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported, said the police.

As many as 21 fire tenders along with over 50 fire and emergency services personnel rushed to the spot around 11.50 a.m. “It could have been a lot worse as there were more than 500 oil-filled barrels lying in the open on the two-acre field where the godown was located. They were stacked in the open air,” said a fire official.

A senior executive of a mineral water firm in the area said it was a disaster waiting to happen. The owner of the godown had allegedly dumped the barrels, which had rusted and were leaking. Other companies in the area too had expressed concern over this.

According to the fire personnel, the godown belonged to a Kerala-based businessman who was using it to store used and unused oil barrels. “The metal barrels were exposed to sun and rain, and started rusting and leaking. Neighbours had complained to the godown watchman and owner, but he neglected it,” said another person who worked in the area.

The shipment of barrels were reportedly filled with turmeric, eucalyptus, ginger oil and other cosmetic oils, that were meant to be exported. The police have still to confirm this. However, the State pollution board had issues with the shipment and did not clear it for export. “The barrels were taken to the godown and dumped there,” a senior officer with the fire and emergency services said.

Several neighbours have complained that the watchman used to burn garbage on the premises to keep himself warm at night, which could have caused the fire.

Smoke billowed up to 60 feet and the entire area was filled with the smell of burnt oil. There were many houses near the godown and residents were evacuated. “We have called for additional fire tenders from the city and as it is an oil fire, it might take a day or two to completely douse it,” he added. “However, the fire has been contained.”

The police have registered a case against the owner of the godown.