Bhadrak: A devastating fire broke out in Chhatrapada village under Tihidi block of Odisha’s Bhadrak district, leaving behind widespread destruction of homes, livestock and property.
As per sources, over 20 houses were gutted, more than 120 animals killed and property worth lakhs destroyed in the inferno that engulfed the village late Sunday night. The fire was suspected to have been triggered by an electrical short circuit.
Locals said the blaze erupted suddenly near midnight and quickly spread across the settlement in Chhatrapada, engulfing multiple thatched houses. The fire reduced over 20 houses to ashes and caused heavy losses to villagers who were unable to salvage their belongings. The flames spread rapidly due to the dry conditions and the thatched structures, leaving residents with little time to react.
The tragedy was compounded by the death of livestock. More than 120 animals, including around 20 cattle and over 100 goats, were burnt alive as they were trapped inside sheds and unable to escape the raging flames. In addition, villagers reported the destruction of hundreds of bags of paddy, furniture and household essentials, wiping out the livelihood of several families.
Villagers immediately alerted the fire service, but by the time firefighters arrived, much of the damage had already been done. Local administrative officials and elected representatives rushed to the site to assess the situation and console the affected families. Fire personnel eventually managed to bring the blaze under control, preventing it from spreading further into nearby areas.
While the exact cause of the fire is yet to be confirmed, preliminary investigations suggest that an electrical short circuit may have triggered the incident. Authorities are continuing their probe to ascertain the source of the blaze.
The fire has left 7 families homeless, with their houses and belongings completely gutted. The destruction has plunged the community into shock, as many villagers lost not only their homes but also their primary source of income in the form of livestock and stored crops.
Local authorities have assured that emergency relief will be provided to the affected families. Immediate assistance such as temporary shelter, food and financial support is expected to be extended by the administration. Officials have also promised to evaluate rehabilitation measures to help the victims rebuild their lives.
