A massive fire broke out late last night in the Dairyfarm area, claiming the life of an elderly woman, injuring four to five others, and reducing at least five houses to ashes. The fire spread rapidly through a cluster of homes before it was brought under control by the fire brigade.
Residents said the blaze erupted during the night, with thick smoke and flames quickly rising into the sky. Many were jolted awake by crackling sounds and the glow of fire. People rushed out of their homes and tried to help those in nearby houses evacuate. Despite their efforts, an elderly woman was later found dead inside one of the charred homes.
According to a neighbour, the woman was living in the house on rent and had been staying there for some time. Authorities are still verifying whether she was a permanent resident or staying temporarily.
Emergency services were alerted soon after the fire broke out. The fire brigade responded promptly and worked swiftly to contain the blaze, preventing it from spreading beyond the five houses that were completely gutted. Firefighters faced challenges due to the proximity of the houses and the narrow approach lanes in the area.
Other residents from the other affected homes sustained injuries while trying to escape. They were taken to GB Pant Hospital for treatment. Medical officials have yet to release a detailed update on the condition of the injured, but none are reported to be in critical condition so far.
A forensic team arrived at the scene during the night to inspect the site and collect samples. While an electrical short circuit is suspected as the cause, no official confirmation has been issued yet. The investigation is ongoing, and the exact circumstances surrounding the woman’s death, whether due to burns, suffocation from smoke inhalation, or other reasons, are yet to be determined.
In the aftermath of the incident, TSG Bhasker, Chairman of the Campaign Committee of the ANTCC, visited the fire site to assess the damage and meet the affected families. He assured them of all possible support, including help with rehabilitation. The family of the deceased woman requested his assistance in transporting her mortal remains to Kolkata, to which he assured that the postmortem would be completed on the same day and arrangements would be made to send the body by the following day. Bhasker has also written to the Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman, requesting relief measures for the victims. He expressed condolences, prayed for the families affected by the tragedy, and stood in solidarity with those who lost their homes, belongings, and crucial documents in the fire.
Police have sealed off the area and are recording statements from residents to help piece together what led to the incident. The identity of the deceased woman has not yet been officially disclosed.
The fire has left behind significant damage. Five homes were completely destroyed, and residents of these houses have lost most of their belongings. Civic authorities are assessing the extent of the damage and are expected to coordinate relief and temporary shelter for the displaced families.
Fire officials noted that the dense construction in the locality and the absence of proper fire safety measures made firefighting efforts more difficult. The incident has once again raised concerns about the vulnerability of older residential areas with congested layouts and limited access points.
Authorities are continuing their investigation and have assured the public that more information will be shared as soon as it becomes available.
