ADM Mangan Inspects Fire-Ravaged Houses in Lachung, Assures Assistance to Affected Families
Mangan:22nd Oct: It was a very disturbing day on Wednesday around 12.30,pm,when fire damaged 5 houses badly in Lachung. Additional District Magistrate (ADM), Mangan, Mr Pema Wangchen Namkarpa, today visited Lachung to assess the damage caused by a devastating fire .
The fire completely destroyed three houses belonging to Mr Wongchuk Lachungpa and his family. A private vehicle and business stock procured just days before the incident were also reduced to ashes, leaving the affected family with significant losses. The suspected cause of the fire is an electrical short circuit. Partial damage was also reported to the houses of Ms Tshering Ongmu Lachungpa, Mr Kessang Lachungpa, Mr Sonam Palzor and Mr Mindu Lachungpa. The nearby State Bank of India establishment was also affected.
The inspection was conducted in the presence of Pipon of Lachung, Mr Sonam Tshering Lachungpa, Mr Chungthuk Lachungpa, the Chutimpa of Lachung Dzumsa, Revenue Officer, Chungthang, Mr Kessang Rikzing Lepcha, Field Staff of DDMA, Mangan, Police personnel and local residents.
During the visit, ADM Mangan assured the affected families that the administration would explore all possible assistance under the prescribed norms. He informed that the process for eligible ex-gratia assistance was underway and would be taken forward once the offices resume functioning after the Durga Puja holidays. Meanwhile, affected family have been safely relocated at the residences of their relatives in Lachung.
The Pipons and local residents also urged the authorities to station a fire tender on standby in Lachung, highlighting the area’s importance as a major tourist destination, and the need for a prompt emergency response to tackle any exigency.
The incident has highlighted the importance of strengthening fire safety measures and emergency preparedness in remote areas. While the affected families begin the difficult process of recovery, the administration’s assurance and the community’s appeal for improved firefighting facilities underscore the collective need to build a safer and more resilient Lachung.
– Report from DIO Mangan
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