Umling Pdeng Shnong, June 9: A mother and her two young children narrowly escaped unhurt after a fire completely destroyed their house in Umling Pdeng Shnong, Ri Bhoi District, in the early hours of Tuesday.
The incident occurred at around 2:30 AM and is suspected to have been caused by a burning candle that had been left lit during a power outage.
According to reports, the house belonged to Mrs. Briliancy Tangsang (26), who was living there with her two sons, aged six and three years.
Speaking about the incident, Mrs. Tangsang said she was awakened by a bright glow and the smell of smoke coming from the kitchen. Upon investigating, she discovered that flames had already spread rapidly through the house.
Realizing the danger, she immediately evacuated her two children to safety before seeking assistance from her elder brother, who resides nearby.
Local residents and neighbours rushed to the scene and attempted to douse the flames. However, the fire had intensified by the time help arrived, making it difficult to contain.
The matter was subsequently reported to the Fire and Emergency Services in Nongpoh. Fire personnel responded promptly and succeeded in bringing the blaze under control, preventing it from spreading to adjacent houses.
Despite the efforts of residents and firefighters, the house was completely gutted in the incident. No casualties or injuries were reported.
Expressing sympathy for the affected family, the Rangbah Shnong of Umling Pdeng Shnong, Bah Comenson Wahlang, said the incident had caused significant hardship and loss to the family.
Soon after receiving information about the fire, the area MDC, Rona Khymdeit, visited the site and met the affected family. She expressed solidarity with them and assured that efforts would be made to explore possible avenues of assistance and support during this difficult time.
The exact cause of the fire has not been officially confirmed, though preliminary reports suggest that a candle used during the power outage may have triggered the blaze. Authorities are expected to conduct further inquiries into the incident.
