By Romesh Madushanka - Wanni   

A house in the Kottai area in the Mannar Divisional Secretariat has been completely gutted by a fire reported to have been caused by an explosion of a gas stove yesterday afternoon (6).  

 Subsequently, the fire started to spread rapidly destroying the entire house.   

No injuries or casualties were reported by the fire including the woman who was living alone in the house. However, she was admitted to hospital due to fainting while attempting to douse the fire.   

The gas cylinder is said to have been purchased a few days ago. However, further investigations are being conducted to determine the actual cause of the fire.