Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: Properties worth over Rs 2 crore were destroyed after a fire broke out at Khoupum Bazaar, under Khoupum Police Station in Manipur’s Noney district, on Wednesday night, gutting eight shops and 11 houses.
Preliminary information suggests the fire was triggered by an electrical short circuit inside a shop that reportedly contained petrol and gas. An explosion from a gas cylinder further spread the fire, reducing 11 dwellings to ashes.
According to the Manipur Fire Services, two fire tenders were rushed to the spot after receiving an emergency call. The blaze was brought under control early Thursday morning.
A team from the Assam Rifles and Manipur Fire Services, along with a water bowser, firefighting equipment and fire tenders, rushed to the spot and doused the fire after evacuating residents.
Prompt action prevented the blaze from spreading to adjacent houses in the congested area, thereby saving lives and property.
Authorities confirmed that there were no casualties, which came as a great relief. The Manipur Chief Minister, in an official statement, termed it a very unfortunate incident that has caused widespread concern among residents and shopkeepers.
An assessment of the damage will be finalised by Friday.