Assam: Devastating fire at Harangajao Bazar leaves many homeless

OUR Correspondent

Haflong: A massive fire broke out at the century-old Harangajao Bazar, destroying at least 55 shops and 16 dwelling houses. This tragic incident has left many families homeless, causing widespread devastation and uncertainty.

Fire services stationed at Harangajao faced delays in reaching the site—just 100 meters away—due to a damaged bridge. Additional units from Borkhola, Silchar, and Haflong were deployed to contain the fire. Despite their efforts, the damage was extensive.

The Dima Hasao District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) promptly arrived to assess the extent of damage and losses. However, many locals believe the destruction could have been minimized if the fire services had arrived sooner.

Shilpi Bathari, a fire victim and a mother of three, expressed her despair, stating she has lost her sole source of income. She had been renting her house to five shopkeepers to support her family and fund her children’s education. The fire has left her and others struggling to rebuild their lives. Similarly, Biswajit Paul, the Bazar Secretary, lamented the slow response, emphasizing how timely action could have reduced the losses. According to him, many individuals escaped with only their lives and the clothes they wore, leaving their homes and businesses behind in ruins.

Chief Executive Member of the Dima Hasao Autonomous Council, Debolal Gorlosa, visited the bazar along with Dhriti Thaosen (President, BJP Dima Hasao), Donpainon Thaosen (EM, DHAC),  Probita Johori Bathari (EM, DHAC), John Phoitong (MAC, DHAC), Rupali Langthasa (MAC, DHAC), the Chairman of the Harangajao Town Committee, and the president of the Harangajao Mandal. They interacted with the fire victims, offering both comfort and assurances of assistance.

In his address, Gorlosa vowed to support the affected families, promising every effort to help them recover and rebuild their lives after this tragic event.

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