Sirsi: An estimated loss of Rs 8 lakh was incurred in the fire mishap that took place at the HIV Testing Centre at Pandit General Hospital in Sirsi on Monday.

It is suspected that a short circuit triggered the fire which broke out in the afternoon when the staff were taking a lunch break.

An HIV testing machine, test kit, register of patients, refrigerator and other furniture were reduced to ashes. Fireman J N Emanuel and his team brought the fire under control.