A private metal scrap godown at Saidapet in Old Town that comes under Vellore Corporation limits was gutted on Saturday after fire broke out in the facility and destroyed goods worth ₹4 lakh.

The police said that it was around 5 a.m when residents noticed thick smoke coming from the godown, which was run by Mohammed Awaz, 48, a resident in Vellore.

On being informed, fire fighters from Vellore town reached the spot and doused the fire.

A case was registered by Vellore North police. The police said that an electrical short circuit could be the reason for the fire. A probe is under way.