Ukhrul: At least two houses were destroyed in a massive fire that broke out at Tangrei in Ukhrul district headquarters on Wednesday afternoon.
According to local reports, the fire began around 1 pm near the Ukhrul Power House (33/11 kV sub-station), completely consuming two residential buildings and causing property losses estimated at over Rs 1 crore.
Eyewitnesses reported that smoke was first detected emanating from a wooden house. Shortly afterward, an LPG cylinder exploded, causing the flames to spread rapidly to a neighbouring house.
Miranda Shimrah, the owner of the wooden house, said the fire was triggered by a suspected short circuit, reducing three rooms to ashes. She estimated losses of Rs 12-14 lakh, including damage to a TV, laptop, furniture, clothes, and gold items.
The blaze reportedly originated in a room rented by a tenant, but according to a tenant named Yarin, nobody was at home when the fire broke out.
The fire then quickly spread to an adjacent RCC house owned by Casemi Phazang, destroying four rooms on the first floor. Phazang reported significant losses, including furniture, clothes, valuables, and Rs 30,000 in cash. The total estimated loss of property has been pegged at over Rs 1 crore.
Prompt action by the Ukhrul Fire Brigade, Assam Rifles personnel, and local youths helped bring the fire under control and prevented further damage.
A report of the incident has been submitted to the Ukhrul police station.
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