Date:03/04/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/04/03/stories/2006040301740300.htm

Karnataka - Belgaum

Shops gutted in Gokak

BELGAUM: A major fire broke out in Gokak town on Saturday night. According to sources, the fire broke out owing to a short circuit in a lamppost, resulting in multiple short circuits in seven electrical spare parts shops in the town. Sources said the Fire Services staff took the calls lightly suspecting it to be a prank as Saturday was April Fools' Day.

Eyewitness said it took nearly six hours to put out the blaze.