KATHMANDU: A vehemence of panic gripped the locals in the neighbourhood of the historical Kathmandu Durbar Square as a massive fire broke out in a five-storyed building at Maru Ganeshsthan, Basantapur, Monday evening.

It is reported that a gas stove in a Momo restaurant exploded at around 4 p.m., putting the building at the menace of gusty flames.

At least seven people, including restaurant staff and guests, were reported injured while they attempted to save their lives by jumping off the second and third floors of the building, police said.

The injured have been admitted to Bir Hospital.

Most of the injured have suffered severe burn and skull fractures, a hospital source said.

Witnesses said a huge cloud of smoke covered the sky over a nearby residential area.

Firefighters from Kathmandu Fire Brigade combined with a team of police and army worked to put out

the blaze, with no further casualties reported as yet.