MORANG: A fire that broke out at the office of Biratnagar-based Pashupati Paints Industry at midday today has destroyed property worth Rs 500,000.

The office caught fire while a welding machine was being used, according to police.

Computer, laptop, AC machine, CC camera and furniture were gutted in the fire, said Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Yogendra Singh Thapa.

A fire brigade and police battled the fire for an hour before it could be put out.