Kullu: A devastating fire broke out on Wednesday in Tandi village of Banjar in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, reducing 17 houses and six cowsheds to ashes and leaving over 15 families homeless.
Though no casualties were reported, the incident caused a massive loss of approximately Rs 10 crore, as estimated by Kullu SP Gokulchandra Kartikeyan.
The fire, which started around 2.45 pm in a cowshed belonging to Dalip Singh, quickly spread to the surrounding houses, fuelled by stored grass. Within minutes, the flames engulfed the village, leaving residents with little time to salvage their belongings.
The blaze also destroyed the sacred storehouse of the village deity, Garhpati Sheshnag, adding to the emotional toll on the villagers.
The fire brigade arrived on the scene but faced challenges due to the rapid spread of the fire. Local residents tried to douse the flames, but their efforts could not save their homes.
15,000 immediate relief provided to each family
The district administration has provided immediate relief of Rs 15,000 per family, blankets, tarpaulins and utensils.
Deputy Commissioner Torul S Ravish assured that the administration is assessing the losses and will extend all possible support to the affected families.
Banjar MLA Surender Shourie visited the site and urged the state government to provide comprehensive assistance to the displaced families. Meanwhile, villagers, including children and elderly residents, were seen in tears as they watched their homes burn.
Fires in winters a common hazard
Winter months in Himachal Pradesh often witness such incidents as residents rely heavily on firewood and electric heaters to combat the sub-zero temperatures.
Improper handling of heating appliances or storing flammable materials like hay near heat sources frequently leads to short circuits or accidental fires.
With the temperature in Banjar dipping below freezing, the fire has compounded the villagers’ hardship by leaving over 100 people without shelter.
“Despite the immediate response by authorities, the incident underscores the need for improved fire safety awareness and preparedness in the state’s remote and vulnerable regions,” said a few distraught villagers.
