A massive fire broke out at Secunderabad Club in Hyderabad early Sunday morning, causing property damage of over Rs 20 crore, according to initial reports.

Police confirmed that there were no casualties, according to reports. So far, a short-circuit is believed to be the reason behind the fire that destroyed one of the oldest clubs in the country.

A police patrol team had noticed the blaze at around 3.15. The fire department along with seven fire engines, including one from the Army, rushed to the site and set the flames to rest by 6 am, PTI reported.  

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A preliminary investigation has revealed the fire may have started at 2.30 am, an hour before it was noticed. 

Speaking to The News Minute, a fire official said, “We were alerted about the fire at around 2.30 am. We reached the spot in 10 minutes. Seven fire engines were engaged to put out the fire.”

The police commissioner of Hyderabad city, CV Anand, said the 50,000 square ft built-up area was largely made of wood, so the chances of the structure surviving were minimuming despite teh best efforts. 

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“The club office-bearers have not expressed any suspicion – fire department and police will probe as per procedures,” he said, reported NDTV.

The 8000-member Secunderabad Club had been given heritage status by the Hyderabad Urban Development Authority. According to its official website, the landmark was established by the British in 1878 and is located on a 22-acre campus.

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“Up until 1947, only British citizens were allowed to be President, and only a handful of high ranking Hyderabad nobility were offered membership in the Secunderabad club,” the website said.