Team Herald
PONDA: A family of four from Ghalwada-Priol is in distress after their home was completely gutted in a fire caused by a suspected short circuit, which led to an LPG cylinder explosion.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
The fire, which broke out at midnight, left the house on the verge of collapse, with cracks in its walls and the family losing all their belongings, including Rs 10,000 in cash, gold, furniture, clothing, and school books and certificates.
Fortunately, there were no casualties as the family was staying with relatives in Mangueshi, at the time of the incident. Neighbours alerted the family after noticing the blaze and attempted to douse the flames before the fire brigade arrived.
Speaking about the incident, homeowner Sandesh Chari said, “The fire occurred late at night. I suspect it was caused by a short circuit, which then led to the LPG cylinder explosion. By the time the fire brigade arrived, the house was completely destroyed. The roof was gutted, and the walls sustained severe damage.”
He added that the family, including his wife and two children, was staying with relatives due to his son’s recent appendix surgery. “The house is located up 52 steps, which my son, recovering from surgery, couldn’t climb. We were staying at our relatives’ home in Mangueshi when neighbours informed us about the fire. We rushed to the spot immediately, but it was too late.”
The family is now homeless and seeking government assistance to rebuild their house. “My daughter, who is in Class 12 and preparing for her NEET exams, lost all her books while my son, who is in Class 9, also lost his school materials. I am a retired employee and do not have the financial capacity to rebuild the house. We desperately need help,” Chari pleaded.
His wife, Geeta Chari, recounted how locals informed them about the fire. “We received a call around midnight and rushed to the spot. When we arrived, everything was gone. It’s devastating,” she said.
The Kundaim Fire Station personnel, who eventually brought the fire under co ntrol, have stated that the loss is yet to be fully assessed.
The Chari family is now awaiting support to recover from this tragic incident and rebuild their lives.
