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Museum fire guts exhibits of rare specimens, animals in Indian capital

Xinhua, April 26, 2016 Adjust font size:

A massive fire destroyed the National Museum of Natural History in central Delhi in the wee hours on Tuesday, destroying many exhibits like herpetological specimens and taxidermied animals, said local media.

While nobody was killed or injured in the fire, six fire officials were rushed to hospital after they inhaled excessive smoke during the four-hour operation to control the blaze, said Press Trust of India.

Indian Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar visited the spot and described the fire mishap as "unfortunate" while ordering a safety audit of all museums under his ministry.

The fire broke out on the top floor of the museum, located in Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Building in Mandi House near the Indian Gate. Some repair work was then underway.

Many exhibits like taxidermied (stuffed) animals and specimens were gutted in the fire. Endit