On Friday, August 22, 2025, at around 9:45 PM, a fire broke out in the School of Arts, Koramangala V Block, Bengaluru. The incident started in the security room on the first floor, reportedly due to a suspected gas cylinder leak. Two fire tenders were immediately deployed and managed to control the blaze. Residents from a nearby PG accommodation were safely evacuated, and fortunately, no casualties occurred.
Site Description & Layout
The School of Arts is located in a mixed-use commercial building.
The security room, believed to be the fire’s origin, was locked from outside, restricting access.
Its proximity to a PG home increased risk, necessitating evacuation.
Risk factors identified:
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Gas cylinder stored in a confined, non-ventilated room.
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Restricted access due to the locked security room.
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Lack of continuous gas-leak detection or isolation systems.
Preliminary Cause Analysis
Authorities suspect the fire was caused by LPG leakage from a cylinder inside the security room.
In enclosed spaces, LPG accumulates near the floor, forming a flammable mixture.
Any ignition source (light switch, electrical spark, static charge) could have triggered the fire.
Key unsafe practices observed:
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Indoor storage of gas cylinders in non-ventilated areas.
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Locked room preventing timely detection and response.
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Absence of gas detectors and ventilation systems.
Emergency Response
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Two fire tenders deployed quickly.
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Defensive firefighting approach adopted to contain fire within the room.
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Evacuation of PG residents ensured safety of occupants.
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Cooling and secondary searches carried out post-extinguishment.
Impact Assessment
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Human Impact: No injuries or fatalities.
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Property Damage: Fire damage localized to security room; smoke impact possible in adjoining areas.
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Business Continuity: Likely temporary disruption for School of Arts pending safety clearance.
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Community Impact: Evacuation of PG residents caused temporary inconvenience and heightened safety concerns.
Compliance & Fire Safety Codes
This incident highlights gaps in adherence to safety codes:
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LPG cylinders must not be stored indoors in enclosed, locked rooms.
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Buildings must have gas detection systems, alarms, and emergency shut-off valves.
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Utility/security rooms should remain accessible at all times in case of emergencies.
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Routine safety audits, drills, and maintenance must be enforced.
Lessons Learned
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Prohibit LPG storage in enclosed, non-ventilated spaces.
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Install gas detectors with auto shut-off valves.
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Ensure emergency access (master keys/break-glass access).
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Carry out routine leak checks and safety inspections.
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Maintain fire-rated doors/compartments in utility spaces.
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Conduct regular staff training and evacuation drills.
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Establish coordination protocols with nearby residential facilities.
Data Gaps & Next Steps
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Forensic confirmation of ignition source and gas type.
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Verification of cylinder condition, last inspection date.
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Review CCTV, logs, and witness statements.
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Audit building fire safety systems (detectors, alarms, hydrants).
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Assess adequacy of ventilation and placement of gas sensors.
Conclusion
The Bengaluru Art School fire (22 August 2025) was contained promptly due to the fast response of fire services and timely evacuation.
Although no lives were lost, the incident highlights the serious risks of unsafe gas cylinder storage in enclosed spaces.
A post-incident safety audit, strict compliance enforcement, and staff training are critical to prevent recurrence in similar institutions and mixed-use commercial properties.
