The fire which sparked from the hut of Rupali Miyan had spread to nearby huts and burnt them down in no time. [break]
Also, high winds from early morning fanned the fire and attempts to bring it under control went in vain, police said. The rescue team comprising of Nepal Police, Nepal Army and Armed Police Force was able to douse the fire only after three hours.
"By the time when the fire was put off, everything had already been destroyed. My house and cow-shed turned into ashes in front of my eyes and I could not do anything," said Miyan.
Rangoli Area Police station in-change inspector Gajindra Karki informed that fire brigades from Biratnagar, Damak and Itahari were pressed into service to douse the flames. "From our preliminary investigation, we have learnt that 65 huts were burnt but there are no human casualties but two farm animals died," said Karki.
Police have estimated that property worth Rs 100 million was destroyed in the fire as they are still collecting details of losses from the displaced families.
Karki shared that rescue and compensations are much needed in the affected area. "The displaced families should be provided with food and shelter immediately," said Karki.
The fire affected area of Maldahiya Tol has 150, mostly Muslim families.
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